A review of transmission switching and network topology optimization

Currently, there are multiple national directives that call for the development of a smarter electrical grid. This includes, but is not limited to, the development of advanced transmission technologies as well as optimizing the use of transmission. Transmission control has been identified as a valuable mechanism for a variety of benefits, from improving the system reliability to improving the market surplus. However, the use of transmission as a controllable asset today is limited. This paper provides a literature review on transmission control and discusses current industry practices involving transmission control; the goal of this paper is to reemphasize the importance of transmission control in order to initiate future research and development in this area so that we are able to truly build and operate a smarter, more flexible transmission grid.