Optimizing placement of automatic sectionalizers in distribution system using the genetic algorithm ☆

In recent years, improving the reliability of the distribution power system is one of the most concerned problems of the Vietnamese power utilities (EVN). This paper presents the strategy to deal with the problem of automatic sectionalizer placement in radial distribution feeders, common configuration in the distribution grid system in Vietnam. In particular, a Genetic Algorithm is used to find out the optimized location of automatic or electronic sectionalizer on a radial medium-voltage feeder of northern power distribution system in Vietnam. This study aims specifically to improve the reliability of the distribution network by reducing the SAIDI and ENS indices.