A Novel Nonlinear Programming Model for Distribution Protection Optimization

This paper presents a novel nonlinear binary programming model designed to improve the reliability indices of a distribution network. This model identifies the type and location of protection devices that should be installed in a distribution feeder and is a generalization of the classical optimization models given in the literature. This new approach is more flexible and leads to better placement solutions. Numerical results of the tests performed on real feeders are presented for analysis. Furthermore, we make the reliability data of the 36 feeders that were used in our work available to the research community.