A New Method for Loss Reduction in Distribution Networks via Network Reconfiguration

This paper proposes a new method for loss reduction in distribution networks through network reconfiguration taking into consideration the bus voltage limits and the thermal limits of the network branches. The method presents the load flow equations in a simplified form which is suitable for radial feeders. The load flow equations are formulated in a modified form that can be adequate for network reconfiguration through opening and closing sectionalized and tie switches while keeping its radial structure and ensuring the supply of all connected loads. The Distributed Generation (DG) that is recently applied in distribution systems has been considered in this paper. The validity of the proposed method has been verified using IEEE 16-bus and 33-bus distribution systems. Furthermore, the comparative results confirm the applicability and suitability of the proposed method.