Microgrid‐based resilient distribution network planning for a new town

Abstract

Abstract Nowadays, the deployment of micro‐grids (MGs) is one of the important trends in modern distribution network planning. Implementing this strategy aims to improve the ability of the distribution network to withstand extreme weather conditions and supplying critical loads. While the literature has focused chiefly on operating distribution systems and partitioning them into MGs, in this work, the idea of planning a new low voltage (LV) radial distribution system based on multi MGs for a greenfield is proposed. The main contribution is providing a framework to plan a resilient LV distribution system step by step for a new town without any operating grid. In the planning process, some MGs are formed and their service area and technical specifications like the number of MGs and their sizes are determined by a multi‐objective optimization algorithm considering hardening and resiliency issues. The planning is done in a way that all predefined critical loads will be supplied. To consider the effects of extreme weather conditions, failure rates of poles and conductors due to thunderstorms are considered as a function of wind speed, and their appropriate models are used. The provided method is implemented in a test case with three major scenarios. Accordingly, planning in normal conditions considering hardening options and resilient network planning cases are evaluated. Simulation results and resiliency metrics are compared in detail.

Keywords

• Optimisation techniques
• Distributed power generation
• Power system planning and layout
• Distribution networks