A Dynamic Approach for the Distribution Network Reconfiguration Problem

The integration of distributed generation (DG) and variable loads give rise to significant power variation within distribution networks. In the context of these networks, the operation of remote control switches through a centralized control scheme becomes feasible. Consequently, the distribution network topology can be dynamically modified, taking into account the fluctuating load demands and output from DGs, with the aim of minimizing losses. Modifying the topology of the network with this aim, while respecting constraints is an optimization problem known as the Distribution Network Reconfiguration (DNR) problem. Including a time variable and allowing the topology to vary over time amplifies the extent of the search space, thus posing challenges in identifying the optimal solution. To address this, in this paper, an attempt is made to reduce the search space by imposing limitations on the total number of topologies that can be obtained. However, the results obtained do not express the fact that the case without limitations is the best. They express that the case of limitation of topologies gives better result in terms of power loss at a fixed computational time, which is not expected.