An Interactive Procedure for Sizing and Timing Distribution Substations Using Optimization Techniques

This paper defines a mathematical model which simulates the growth of a power system and determines the least cost expansion plan for a system of distribution substations. A new approach employing linear and integer programming is used to optimize the system´s substation capacities subject to the constraints of cost, load, voltage, and reserve requirements. The model has been successfully applied to a 1600 square mile urban area served by 70 distribution substations.