Power System Reliability Evaluation Incorporating Dynamic Thermal Rating and Network Topology Optimization

The electrical power grid is a critical infrastructure that plays a key role in supporting modern society. The reliability of power systems needs to be continuously maintained to deliver high-quality electric services. Due to the tremendous amounts of potential investment demanded for constructing new electricity transmission facilities, electric utilities need economical solutions that can enable them to supply electricity to their customers in a cost-effective and reliable way. Dynamic thermal rating (DTR) and network topology optimization (NTO) technologies aim to maximize the use of existing transmission assets and to provide flexible ways to enhance reliability of the power system. In this study, the DTR and NTO are incorporated into the power grid reliability assessment procedure using the sequential Monte Carlo simulation. Multiple case studies are carried out based on the modified IEEE RTS-79 and IEEE RTS-96 systems, accounting for long-term multiarea weather conditions. The numerical results indicate that with the incorporation of DTR and NTO, the reliability of power systems can be improved. The effect of these methods is especially significant for power grids with lower electricity delivery capabilities.