This paper proposes a methodology to solve the Distribution System restoration problem after a fault. This is a Mix Integer Non-Linear optimization problem which poses considerable challenges to traditional methods. The approach described in this paper models the discrete variables of the problem as continuous functions, thus the problem can be solved using the Primal-Dual Interior Point method. The proposed methodology uses graph theory to identify isolated areas and loops in the system. System switches are closed based on a index, obtained from an Optimum Power Flow (OPF) algorithm. The problem is solved step-by-step, providing a feasible switching operation sequence. The proposed method are tested and comparisons show the efficcience and robustness of the algorithm.
Distribution Restoration; Reconfiguration; Step by Step approach; Interior Points; Optimum Power Flow
