Substation planning based on geographic information and differential evolution algorithm

In this paper the differential evolution (DE) algorithm is used to solve the substation location optimization problem for a distribution network. To improve the capability of the DE algorithm, the dynamic parameter adjustment strategy is used to guarantee the multiplicity of colony in the initial computation period and enhance the optimization speed of the algorithm in the later period. Using the knowledge of the geographic information system, the graph of possible area of substation location is encoded and stored in data form, the suitable location area is selected on the comparison of network topologies of optional location areas and geographic information. Through the simulation and analysis of a practical example the idea of combining the DE algorithm with graphical display based on GIS database has been successfully employed in distribution network planning.