Open Point Optimization Analysis Module
Most distribution systems are organized into a radial network in order to make the system more practical to operate. The selection of open point location has a powerful effect on the losses and voltage profile of the system. The Open Point Optimization Analysis recommends the best changes to make to open point locations in an existing distribution system in order to reduce real power losses.
The analysis lets you choose whether to optimize either existing switches, or to allow the evaluation of new open point locations. By comparing these two options you can determine whether the addition of new switches is required and is cost-effective. You can choose how many switch changes you want to consider and the algorithm will find the best changes. The analysis also lets you specify the maximum allowable loading on conductors and transformers.
To try to optimize manually is relatively simple for a single loop (one switch). However, on a complete system with many switches, the problem becomes exponentially more complex. On a modest system with 100 open points you would have to test around 10^60 different alternatives to identify the true optimum. The optimization module of DESS uses an efficient optimization technique to find the best switching configuration. This advanced technique allows you to optimize a complete system, including all supplies and all voltage levels simultaneously, even for systems with thousands of switches. This is very important because changes to flows on one feeder affect neighboring feeders, and changes to feeders of one voltage will affect connected feeders at other voltages. You cannot obtain a true optimum state for a system unless you optimize the entire system at once. This module does just that, quickly and accurately.
The primary benefit of optimizing the location of open points is to reduce losses without the need for any capital investment. Series losses on a typical distribution system can be 2-4% of the total energy delivered. The loss reduction achieved by optimizing the open points can be substantial and is frequently greater than can be obtained from more capital-intensive loss reduction strategies such as use of capacitor banks or reconductoring. The greatest benefits can usually be realized on systems with larger numbers of open points and more meshed networks. Other typical benefits of open point optimization include a flatter system voltage profile and a system configuration where feeders have an increased capacity to pick up extra load. Use of this analysis alone can provide a very attractive return on investment for analysis software.
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