Distribution Reliability Optimization Using Synthetic Feeders

Historical distribution system reliability optimization approaches have relied on the creation of detailed feeder reliability models, which is extremely labor-intensive. This paper presents a reliability optimization approach using synthetic feeders that does not require creating a topologically-precise model, but can still perform an overall system assessment considering a wide range of reliability improvement options for far less modeling effort. The synthetic feeder approach is then applied to Hawaiian Electric’s Oʻahu distribution system, to identify (1) the lowest cost required to achieve various levels of reliability improvement, and (2) an approximate reliability project portfolio for each level of spending.