Fault Current-Constrained Optimal Power Flow on Unbalanced Distribution Networks

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel optimization approach for unbalanced distribution networks that incorporates fault current constraints to reduce fault currents and minimize costs simultaneously, applicable to complex networks with transformers.

Contribution

It introduces a unified optimization framework that couples optimal power flow with fault current constraints in unbalanced networks, eliminating iterative solution procedures.

Findings

Reduces fault currents effectively while minimizing generation costs.

Applicable to unbalanced networks with transformers and phase-shifts.

Single optimization problem couples power flow and fault constraints.

Abstract

With the proliferation of distributed generation into distribution networks, the need to consider fault currents in the dispatch problem becomes increasingly relevant. This paper introduces a method for adding fault current constraints into optimal power flow in order to reduce fault currents while minimizing generation cost. The optimal power flow problem is formulated as a single optimization problem with sub-networks representing the faults of interest. Having a single optimization problem allows the decision variables to be coupled across the optimal power flow and the fault current studies without having to iterate over possible solutions. The proposed method is applicable to unbalanced distribution networks, including those with transformers that introduce phase-shifts.