Balanced and unbalanced distribution networks reconfiguration considering reliability indices

Distribution system reconfiguration problem is a complex optimization process to find a structure with minimum losses in which the satisfaction of both sides, those are consumers and distribution system companies, need to be met. One of the most significant parameters in this regard is to increase the reliability of the system. This parameter, on one hand, increases the satisfaction of power consumption and on the other hand, improves the economic benefits of distribution companies. Distribution system reconfiguration, considering the reliability parameters, seems to make the attempts to solve the problem of optimization difficult. In this paper, a modified heuristic approach for distribution system has been presented. Also, in order to consider reliability indexes, a number of new formulas have been presented. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated on balanced and unbalanced test distribution systems. (C) 2016 Ain Shams University.