Optimal placement of sectionalizing switches for radial distribution grids

The improvement of network reliability indices through the minimization of the number of customers affected by power outages is a major challenge for Distribution System Operators. To this purpose, automated procedures for fault location, isolation and service restoration have been recently proposed. To maximize the benefits provided by such automation schemes, the strategic placement of remotely controllable switches in the network is essential. This paper proposes an optimization algorithm to define the optimum location of sectionalizing switches in radial distribution grid for enhancing reliability indices such as System Average Interruption Duration Index or Expected Energy Not Supplied. The proposed method is based on an Integer Linear Programming approach and allows determining the optimal placement of a given number of switches. Tests performed on a sample grid highlight the performance of the proposed optimization algorithm and show the potential benefits deriving from a smart allocation of switches in the network.