Genetic Algorithm for the Load Balance on Primary Distribution Circuits

Abstract

The measurements registered in eight of the 50 primary distribution circuits of Santa Clara city (Cuba), shown the presence of a 29.8% of phase currents unbalance and a 51.5% of neutral current as average. The phase current unbalance increases the energy losses in primary circuit and contributes to voltages unbalance on the different buses. On the other hand, the presence of a high neutral current on normal operation make it difficult the detection of earth faults by neutral over current relays. The main purpose of this work is to develop a method that determines the minimal reconnection operations needed for the two-phase three-wire and the single-phase two-wire circuit laterals, as well as for the three-phase transformers banks and the single-phase distribution transformers, to minimize the energy losses on the primary distribution circuit and reduce the neutral current to an accepted level. A successful application example of the presented methodology is achieved in a distribution circuit of the Santa Clara city. The results show the energy saving benefits as well as the neutral current reduction on the circuit.