Complexity Reduction for Efficient Hybrid AC/DC Distribution Grid Planning Using a Genetic Algorithm

The demand for grid expansion in the distribution grids is expected to increase due to a growing number of decentralized generation plants and increasing electrification. As an alternative to conventional grid expansion, flexible DC links creating hybrid AC/DC distribution grids can be considered. To solve the planning problem of such hybrid AC/DC grids, the genetic algorithm is a suitable solution method. However, this approach must cope with the high complexity of the planning problem arising from the numerous decision variables involved. This paper introduces various approaches to reduce this complexity. These approaches are evaluated in a case study, comparing their runtime and solution quality in a synthetic medium-voltage grid area.