Improvement of reliability performance in distribution network by optimal investment selection

Distribution system operators often face financial challenges when planning development strategies for distribution networks. These constraints affect decisions about the order and priority of maintenance tasks and the modernization of systems using equipment that incorporates new functionalities. Therefore, it is crucial to systematically and thoroughly analyze the issue and prioritize investment decisions to maximize benefits. This paper analyses the optimal distribution of limited investment funds in order to minimize the Energy not Supplied (ENS) indicator. The choice of investment options is made from predefined actions that include the construction of new power lines to form semi-rings, the replacement of old components with new ones, the replacement of overhead lines with underground cables, as well as installation of remotely operated disconnectors with fault indicators and installation of reclosers. Minimization ofENSis performed for different values of available investment funds. The optimization algorithm was developed and verified on a test system representative of a typical medium-voltage distribution network topology.