Research Specifications

This paper presents a new and useful methodology for simultaneous allocation of sectionalizer switches and distributed energy resources (DERs) considering both reliability and supply security aspects. The proposed algorithm defines the proper locations of sectionalizer switching devices in radial distribution networks considering the effect of DER units in the presented cost function and other optimization constraints such as providing the maximum number of costumers to be supplied by DER units in islanded distribution systems after possible outages. In this paper, the main goal of cost function is to minimize the total cost of expected energy not supplied (EENS) with regard to impacts of load priority and optimum load shedding in the both grid connected and islanding states after possible outages. The proposed method is simulated and tested on a case study system in both cases of with DER and non DER situations. Also, this paper evaluates the number and amount of DER, switch and different DER penetration percentage effects in cost function value. For solving of mentioned problem, this paper uses a new and strong method based on imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA). Simulation and numerical results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm for placement of switch and DER units in the radial distribution network simultaneously.