Stochastic restoration of distribution networks with high penetration of solar PV systems through a generic switching order mechanism

Abstract

The process of fault isolation and service restoration (FISR) is an essential component of the implementation of distribution automation. By using FISR to determine the switching order, whether manually or remotely, the network's reliability is significantly enhanced in comparison to that of conventional switching. On the other hand, it is impossible to refute the exponential development of distributed energy resources such as photovoltaic (PV) generators. This paper introduces a general FISR for distribution networks with high penetration of solar PV systems. The proposed FISR strategy is an optimum switching sequence with the goal of reaching the best restoration hour before any likely fault occurrence. The proposed framework takes into account the inherent uncertainty in network demand and renewable generation in addition to the innovative mathematical programming model for the switching order. In addition, this stochastic programming handles the radiality constraint in the restoration process by creating a fictional layer as a means of reducing the complexity of the modeling. Moreover, the impact of PV penetration level on the optimal switching order for heavy-loaded distribution feeders is addressed and investigated.