Methodology for Minimizing Power Losses in Feeders of Large Distribution Systems Using Mixed Integer Linear Programming

Abstract

This research work presents a reconfiguration experience of a real case power distribution networks aiming to minimize the active power losses and consequently to improve the voltage profile of the overall grid. The grid is modelled as a mixed integer linear programming problem whose objective function is to minimize the active power losses subject to technical constraints, which are: the power balance in each node of the power grid, the capacity limits of the lines and the substations, maintaining the radial operation of the network. The model results are the open branches on each circuit. The technique has been successfully applied to a large power distribution networks with 2344 nodes at a 13.8kV level, located in real city resulting in an 8% and 6% losses reduction in terms of active power losses and energy respectively, and a substantial improvement in the voltage profiles regarding the current state of grid with very acceptable convergence times.