Optimal reliability improvement strategy in radial distribution networks with island operation of distributed generation

This study presents a mixed integer linear programming-based approach for determining the optimal strategy for reliability improvement in radial distribution networks where island operation of distributed generators (DGs) is allowed. The proposed approach simultaneously defines the optimal number, type, and location of new automation devices (ADs) to be installed in a network, the optimal relocation of the existing ADs and the optimal creation of DG islands. The load curtailment possibility in creating islands is considered along with the multi-level load model. The presented numerical results indicate the effectiveness of the proposed approach and the importance of simultaneous consideration of the aforementioned individual strategies in determining the best reliability improvement strategy in radial distribution networks with DGs.