DG-integrated stochastic multiyear distribution expansion planning considering fault current-limiting high-temperature superconducting cables

In this paper, the authors present a new stochastic multiyear framework for distribution expansion planning (DEP) that integrates fault current-limiting high-temperature superconducting cables (FCL-HTSCs) and distributed generations (DGs). The proposed framework, from a new perspective, is capable of analyzing and comparing the efficiency of the FCL-HTSCs with other, more generic cables under different short-circuit conditions. The objective function to be minimized isthe net present value of the total investment costs for reinforcing and/or installing substations, feeders, FCL-HTSCs, and DGs, as well as operation and maintenance costs. The framework also considers Kirchhoff’s current and voltage laws, operational limits on equipment capacities, voltage limits, as well as financial and discrete logical constraints. As a comprehensive overview, the authors have developed: (i) a graph-based bi-conditional scheme to ensure radiality requirements and (ii) a multi-horizon fractional information-gap decision theory (MH-FIGDT) to address the stochastic nature of anticipated load demand, power production of the DGs, and a capital expenditure budget. The resulting mixed-integer nonlinear optimization problem is solved by an integer-coded melody search algorithm (ICMSA) empowered with a multi-computational-stage multi-dimensional multiple-homogeneous structure that offers better performance in diversification and exploration. Case studies using the standard 27-node and realistic, large-scale 104-node distribution grids are provided here in order to show the effectiveness of the proposed framework. Based on simulation results, several conclusions can be drawn: (i) the MH-FIGDT critical cost and/or MH-FIGDT critical deviation coefficient chosen by the distribution grid operator play a key role in achieving robust expansion plans against the given uncertainty set; (ii) the incorporation of the FCL-HTSCs into the DEP problem offers a satisfactory compromise between the required amount and capacity of the equipment and total investment costs; (iii) the functionality of the FCL-HTSCs outperforms the generic cables in mitigating feeder congestion and excessive fault currents under normal and short-circuit conditions, respectively; and, (iv) the variations in fault currents caused by rising DG penetration are keep below the nominal interrupt rating of the circuit breakers, which speaks to the suitability of the proposed framework.