Fault Reconfiguration of Distribution Networks with Soft Open Points Considering Uncertainties of Photovoltaic Outputs and Loads

Abstract

Conventional fault reconfiguration methods assume determinant values for loads and distributed generators outputs, which may lead to a reconfiguration solution that cannot satisfy operational constraints. This paper proposes a fault reconfiguration method for distribution networks with soft open points (SOPs) considering the uncertainties of photovoltaic (PV) output power and loads. Firstly, a fast probabilistic power flow method based on voltage sensitivity for distribution networks with SOPs is proposed to evaluate each reconfiguration scheme. Then a fault reconfiguration model considering uncertainties of PV output powers and loads is formulated and solved to minimize load shedding and line losses. The effectiveness of the proposed reconfiguration method is verified using the modified 33 and 69-bus distribution systems. The proposed method is shown to be very fast and can provide reliable reconfiguration schemes satisfying all system operation constraints.