Minimization of Network Power Losses in the AC-DC Hybrid Distribution Network through Network Reconfiguration Using Soft Open Point

Abstract

The Alternating Current-Direct Current (AC-DC) hybrid distribution network has received attention in recent years. Due to advancement in technologies such as the integration of renewable energy resources of DC–type output and usage of DC loads in the distribution network, the modern distribution system can meet the increasing energy demand with improved efficiency. In this paper, a new AC-DC hybrid distribution network architecture is analyzed that considers distributed energy resources (DER) in the network. A network reconfiguration scheme is proposed that uses the AC soft open point (AC-SOP) and the DC soft open point (DC-SOP) along with an SOP selection algorithm for minimizing the network power losses. Subsequently, the real-time data for DER and load/demand variation are considered for a day-a-head scenario for the verification of the effectiveness of the network reconfiguration scheme. The results show that the proposed network reconfiguration scheme using AC-SOP and DC-SOP can successfully minimize the network power losses by modifying the network configuration. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in minimizing the network power losses by the upgraded network configuration is verified by constructing an AC-DC hybrid distribution network by combining two IEEE 33-bus distribution networks.