Switch and reserve connection placement in a distribution network planning algorithm

Network planning algorithms should, but do not always, inherently consider outage mitigation in terms of switch and reserve connection placement. This paper outlines our approach, which is close to optimum but not exhaustive, in that the main aim is to accurately enough imbed outage mitigation in the planning algorithm so that the lines are in the right place. The methodology involves placing backup connections assuming full default switch placement, and then upgrading and or removing switches so as to maximize their cost benefit. Three levels of switching are supported, two of which, network circuit breakers and automatic load making disconnectors, fulfill the smart paradigm, so that we can assess the impact of such switching on network topology and the rest of the switching, which is manual.