Simultaneous Feeder Reconfiguration and Distributed Generation Planning in the Presence of Voltage-Dependent and Variable Loads

In distribution systems, an effective approach for reducing power loss is required, which the hybrid operation of DG units and network reconfiguration can serve as a best alternative. Load power exhibits variability, altering alongside the voltage fluctuations which occur over time. Furthermore, the correlation between power demand and voltage relies on the type of load. Nonetheless, the incorporation of these important concerns into research on reconfiguration and DG planning is rare. Only a limited number of papers have taken into account the voltage dependence and the type of time-varying loads in their respective models. Nevertheless, they proposed models with significant nonlinearity, requiring computation through nonlinear solvers or metaheuristic algorithms. Meanwhile, these models require the use of intensive linearization techniques to facilitate their implementation through linear solvers. High computational time is demanded by nonlinear solvers, while metaheuristic algorithms cannot guarantee the attainment of optimal solutions. Hence, the accurate modeling of load behavior holds importance in the active distribution system reconfiguration. In this paper, a proficient reconfiguration model is presented, which is both straightforward for implementation in conventional optimization tools and adept at identifying appropriate solutions for the reconfiguration and DG planning problem.