Electric Distribution Network Multiobjective Design Using a Problem-Specific Genetic Algorithm

This paper presents a multiobjective approach for the design of electrical distribution networks. The objectives are defined as a monetary cost index (including installation cost and energy losses cost) and a system failure index. The true Pareto-optimal solutions are found with a multiobjective genetic algorithm that employs an efficient variable encoding scheme and some problem-specific mutation and crossover operators. Results based on 21- and 100-bus systems are presented. The information gained from the Pareto-optimal solution set is shown to be useful for the decision-making stage of distribution network evolution planning.