Topology Identification in Distribution Network based on Phasor Measurement Units

The distribution network is becoming more complex due to the integration of distributed energy resources which causes frequent grid re-configuration. In this context, the knowledge of the grid topology is fundamental to control and manage the overall system. Wrong topology information brings issues regarding the safe and reliable grid operation. This paper proposes a method for the topology identification based on phasor measurement units installed in a limited number of nodes. This method identifies the grid topology through the comparison of multiple state estimations performed considering the possible grid topologies. The minimal difference between the real system states and the state estimations indicates the actual grid topology. To validate the proposed method some simulations have been carried out considering a low voltage distribution network with simulated measurements from PMUs. The simulation results highlight the good performances of this method, with a rate of correct identification greater than 77% for all the possible grid configurations considering time varying loads and generators.