Optimized allocation of Fault Passage Indicators in electrical power distribution systems using harmonic search

• Grant number: 19/24666-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2020
• End date: February 28, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Power Systems
• Principal Investigator: Fabio Bertequini Leao
• Grantee: Vinícius Yuiti Fukase
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Engenharia (FEIS). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Ilha Solteira. Ilha Solteira , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 15/21972-6 - Optimization of the operation and planning in transmission and distribution systems, AP.TEM

Abstract

The maintenance and improvement of distribution networks reliability indices were always objectives to be achieved by electric utilities due mainly to maintaining quality to consumers and pre-set by regulatory agencies limits. To achieve these goals, considering the expansion and modernization of the network, utilities must invest in technology that enables monitoring and operating the network strategically. On the other hand, it is necessary to reduce the maximum operating and investment costs in the network. One of the technologies available for the monitoring and operation of the network are Fault Passage Indicators (FPI) sensors. These can be used to reduce the time for fault location and network repair time, and therefore, reduce the Cost of Energy Not Supplied (CENS) improving network reliability. On the other hand, it must be considered that there is an investment cost for the allocation of these sensors, and it is not acceptable to install sensors in all extensions of the system due to the high investment cost. This research project will address the FPI sensor allocation problem in distribution systems as a combinatorial optimization problem considering two conflicting objectives: CENS and investment cost in the sensor allocation. To solve the mathematical model will be developed and implemented a Harmonic Search based algorithm. The algorithm is based on musical improvisation process and the solution vector is analogous to a harmony. Experimental tests will be performed using the proposed method using a literature test system. (AU)