Método para Avaliação do Impacto de Obras de Expansão na Confiabilidade de Redes de Distribuição

Abstract

This work proposes a method to assess the impact on reliability coming from the expansion of primary distribution networks. The reliability is estimated analytically, while the failure rates of sectors are determined based on the failure history of the primary network and by the adjustment of the estimated reliability indices to historical average values. The method described here was applied to a real distribution feeder of an energy distribution company, allowing the determination of future reliability indices and energy not supplied assuming no expansion takes place and also considering expansion plans that include i) installation of normally-open switches with interconnection to adjacent feeders, ii) automation of switches, and iii) reconductoring of primary network sectors. The results demonstrated that the proposed method can support the decision-making process, thus leading to investments more attractive concerning the improvement of the reliability indices and reduction of the energy not supplied.