Reconfiguration and load shedding for resilient and reliable multiple microgrids

The microgrid concept sets the stage for an energy future consisting of networks of microgrids connected with one another. After a fault occurs, multiple interconnected microgrids engage the possibility of power transfer by reconfiguring the network topology to maximize the number of energized loads. This study proposes a two-stage restoration process by means of reconfiguration and load shedding. Reconfiguration is executed through a branch exchange of normally open tie lines while retaining radial topology. Load shedding is implemented with a particle swarm optimization post-reconfiguration to mitigate any load versus generation imbalance. The proposed algorithm was implemented using MATLAB and tested on a CERTS-based multiple microgrid modelled in DigSilent PowerFactory. All scenarios obtained satisfactory results where each indicated a maximum number of supplied loads and all that required load shedding presented reasonable amounts of load shed. This research contributes to multiple microgrid resiliency and reliability through reconfiguration and load shedding.