Impact of Changes in Customers’ Load to the Solution of Distribution Networks Planning Model

Construction and reconstruction of distribution networks requires planning. During the construction of new networks, planning primarily consists of determining the size and location of substation through which a power supply of customers will be conducted, determining the types of conductors which will be used in the construction of the network, as well as determining the spatial configuration of the distribution network. The ultimate goal is to obtain the optimal configuration of the distribution network, with minimal power losses in the network and prescribed voltage drops at all customers. The paper describes one improved model of planning the construction of distribution networks based on multiple criteria decision making (AHP – Analytic Hierarchy Process), with the application of modern optimization methods (fuzzy logic, simulated annealing). Considering that one of the criteria that has an impact on the final solution of proposed planning model is individual customers’ load, the paper gives the answer to the question whether the changes in customers’ load get different solutions in comparison with the solution obtained with initial values of customers’ loads. The application of this planning model is shown on the example of low-voltage (0.4 kV) distribution network, which does not mean that the model is not applicable to the middle-voltage (10(20) kV) distribution networks. In addition, besides planning the construction of new networks, the model can be applied to the reconstruction of existing networks. Also, it is suitable for detecting problems in existing networks. Therefore, due to wide possibilities of application, this planning model can serve to experienced engineers as a very useful tool.