Distribution network expansion planning: An updated review of current methods and new challenges

Many studies have been conducted on the distribution network expansion planning (DNEP) problem in recent years. The primary goal of this issue is to satisfy electric load demand, taking into account economic and technical considerations. In the past, this planning was done in a centralized manner with all the information available. The restructuring of power networks and the emergence of renewable energy sources (RESs), energy storage systems (ESSs), and new market players with different interests have led to extensive changes in the DNEP issue. Subsequently, the solving methods of the DNEP problem will be important because many new goals, constraints, and other factors have caused the problem to become non-linear and non-convex. This paper prepares a comprehensive study on the DNEP problem from different aspects such as objective functions and constraints, design variables, planning horizon and phases, planning and system types, uncertainty, distributed generations (DGs) and storage units, planning level, solving methods, load models, and environmental issues. Finally, future research trends such as handling the conflicts, solving approaches, and other points facing the DNEP problem are suggested.

Automated summary

This study provides a comprehensive investigation of the distribution network expansion planning (DNEP) problem, examining various aspects such as objective functions, constraints, design variables, and addressing issues like uncertainty, distributed generation, and storage. Future research directions, including conflict resolution and solving approaches, are also suggested.