An application of genetic algorithms to the network reconfiguration in distribution for loss minimization and load balancing problem. II

Network reconfiguration in distribution systems is realized by changing the status of sectionalizing switches, and is usually done for loss reduction or for load balancing in the power system. This paper presents a new method which applies a genetic algorithm to determine which sectionalizing switch to operate in order to solve the distribution system loss minimization reconfiguration problem. In addition, the proposed method introduces a new limited life feature for performing natural selection of individuals. Simulations are carried out in order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. These results show that the proposed method is effective in dealing with the problems of homogeneity and genetic drift associated with the population in the initial state