Reliability Enhancement on Distribution System Using Modified Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Technique

This research paper introduces an innovative approach for optimizing the placement of fault indicators (FIs) within electric distribution systems. The primary focus is on addressing how the presence of existing protection and control devices affects the time it takes to restore service to customers in the event of a fault. Unlike conventional FI placement methods, this extended approach considers the uncertainties associated with automatic switching and introduces a novel technical objective function known as the Customers' Average Restoration Time Index (CARTI). To tackle the complex task of multi-objective optimization, a solution approach has been devised, with the goal of simultaneously minimizing both economic and technical objectives. This methodology harnesses a Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO) algorithm and incorporates a Modified Particle Swarm Optimization technique to select the most suitable solution from the set of Pareto optimal solutions generated. The proposed method's effectiveness is demonstrated through its application in two scenarios: firstly, in the context of bus number four within the Roy Billinton test system (RBTS4), and secondly, in a practical real-life distribution network. The study assesses technical objectives, specifically the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) and CARTI, providing insights into the method's practical utility and its capacity to enhance FI placement for improved distribution system performance.