Distribution feeder reconfiguration for service restoration and load balancing

This paper describes two feeder reconfiguration algorithms for the purpose of service restoration and load balancing in a real-time operation environment. The developed methodologies combine optimization techniques with heuristic rules and fuzzy logic for efficiency and robust performance. Many of practical operating concerns of feeder reconfiguration and the coordination with other distribution automation applications are also addressed. The developed algorithms have been implemented as a production grade software. Test results on PG&E distribution feeders show that the performance is efficient and robust.