Optimal Conductor Size Selection in Radial Distribution Networks Using a Mixed-Integer Non-Linear Programming Formulation

In this paper a mixed-integer non-linear programming formulation for optimal conductor selection in radial distribution networks is proposed. The objective function in this problem corresponds to the minimization of power losses and costs of investment in conductors. A typical set of constraints corresponding to the operative conditions in distribution systems, as power flow balance, voltage regulation, thermal capacity and telescopic conductors distribution, among others, are employed. Three different demand scenarios are considered to evaluate their impacts in the final conductor selection. The proposed mathematical model is solved using the general algebraic modeling system (GAMS) and DICOPT solver. Two radial distribution networks with 8 and 27 nodes, respectively, are employed to verify the general performance of the mathematical model proposed.