Multi-Objective Reconfiguration of Electrical Distribution Networks Considering Energy Not Supplied and Geospatial Constraints

This paper proposes an optimal reconfiguration methodology for electrical distribution systems aimed at improving operational efficiency and service quality. Traditionally, distribution network reconfiguration has focused on minimizing technical losses and improving the voltage profile; however, these approaches do not explicitly incorporate reliability criteria or geospatial aspects associated with the actual operation of distribution networks. The proposed methodology minimizes active power losses while incorporating reliability constraints through the calculation of Energy Not Supplied and a relative georeferenced spatial-operational indicator for the selected switching devices. The approach is based on a topological analysis combined with the Manta Ray Foraging Optimization metaheuristic algorithm, while the electrical evaluation is performed using the fast-decoupled power flow method with the FDXB formulation. The weighted scalar objective function considers active power losses, Energy Not Supplied associated with N–1 contingencies, and the relative georeferenced spatial-operational indicator associated with the selected switching devices. The voltage profile is subsequently evaluated as a technical performance indicator to verify the operational quality of the obtained configurations. The methodology is validated using test systems, achieving loss reductions, improvements in the voltage profile, and a decrease in Energy Not Supplied, thereby demonstrating configurations with improved electrical and reliability performance that are more representative of practical distribution network operation.