A Micro-PMU Placement Scheme for Distribution Systems Considering Practical Constraints

TL;DR

This paper proposes an ILP-based micro-PMU placement strategy for unbalanced distribution systems, considering practical constraints like phase observation limitations, loads, and switch configurations, to optimize monitoring with minimal units.

Contribution

It introduces a novel ILP approach that accounts for real-world distribution system constraints and minimizes both the number of micro-PMUs and monitored phases.

Findings

Optimally places micro-PMUs considering practical constraints.

Reduces the number of micro-PMUs needed for effective monitoring.

Identifies the minimum phases to observe for comprehensive system insight.

Abstract

This paper presents an innovative approach to micro-phasor measurement unit (micro-PMU) placement in unbalanced distribution networks. The methodology accounts for the presence of single-and-two-phase laterals and acknowledges the fact that observing one phase in a distribution circuit does not translate to observing the other phases. Other practical constraints such as presence of distributed loads, unknown regulator/ transformer tap ratios, zero-injection phases (ZIPs), modern smart meters, and multiple switch configurations are also incorporated. The proposed micro-PMU placement problem is solved using integer linear programming (ILP), guaranteeing optimality of results. The uniqueness of the developed algorithm is that it not only minimizes the micro-PMU installations, but also identifies the minimum number of phases that must be monitored by them.