Efficient Distribution System Restoration with Dispersed Generation Based on ACO Algorithm

The large scale penetration of Distributed Generation (DG) within distribution networks will significantly impact on the operation of future distribution systems. It will also be possible to take advantage of DG with regard to the service restoration in distribution networks. In order to enhance the service reliability, intentional islanding operation and coordinated operations of DG with supporting feeders can be considered to assist service restoration during fault. The objective is to reduce the consequences due to a major blackout in terms of the out of service load volume. This paper proposed an ant colony optimization algorithm for minimization problem during restoration process. The proposed algorithm searches for an optimal switching sequence, and the solution provides an effective service restoration strategy that improves system reliability. The numerical results with a test power system demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithm.