Phase Reconfiguration in Distribution Networks to Minimize Voltage Imbalance via Multi-objective Heuristic

Abstract

Voltage imbalance can produce several negative impacts on the electric power distribution network, such as equipment deterioration and improper operation of the protection system. This work presents a multi-objective formulation for the phase reconfiguration problem in three-phase buses, aiming to minimize voltage imbalance and the number of interventions in the network. To solve the problem, we propose the Multi-Objective Heuristic Algorithm for Phase Switching (AHMTF), which leverages specific knowledge of the network along with an exhaustive search. For calculating unbalanced power flow, the OpenDSS software is used. The methodology is validated through simulations with phase switching in the modified and unbalanced IEEE 34-bus feeder. An analysis of the solutions obtained shows that the employed methodology can significantly reduce voltage imbalance and offer other operational benefits.