Hosting Capacity Maximization Based on Optimal Reconfiguration of Distribution Networks with Optimized Soft Open Point Operation

The wide integration of distributed generators (DGs) has been steadily increasing due to its tangible benefits. The main potentials of distributed generators arise from their ability to increase system reliability and peak load coverage, improve power quality, reduce the overall carbon footprint, and others. However, their integration requires many security considerations like power quality issues, overvoltage, reverse power flow problems, lines carrying capacities, and others. In this chapter, a strategy is proposed to find the optimal reconfiguration along with soft open point (SOP) allocation in order to increase distribution system hosting capacity (HC). Hosting capacity means the ability of the distribution system to accommodate more DGs without violating system operating limits. The proposed strategy has been tested on an 83-bus distribution network of a Taiwan power company at three loading levels, and no reverse power flow is permitted. Results reflected the effectiveness of the proposed strategy to maximize HC.