Georeferenced rural distribution network model considering scalable growth of users in rural areas

Juan García; Esteban Inga

doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12724

Georeferenced rural distribution network model considering scalable growth of users in rural areas

Heliyon. 2023 Jan 10;9(1):e12724. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12724. eCollection 2023 Jan.

Authors

Juan García^{1

2}, Esteban Inga²

Affiliations

¹ Master of Electricity Program, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Quito 170525, Ecuador.
² Master in ICT for Education, Smart Grid Research Group, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Quito 170525, Ecuador.

Abstract

This paper presents a georeferenced optimal planning model of a rural distribution network for deploying an underground network considering a real scenario for increasing electrification in this area. A model is presented based on a heuristic process that minimizes the resources required to route the grid for a defined time horizon. Then, the model is scalable according to the population density, the established and georeferenced zone, and the specified period; that is, it adjusts to any of these variables. Additionally, the modeling is presented in CYME software, considering a series of technical criteria to provide the actual scenario with a verifiable planning model of an underground network. Therefore, the voltage drop and level of overload in transformers and feeders are considered to deliver an optimum power quality to the end-user. These results will be tabulated and presented as an alternative to different planning and design models that an electric distribution company may have to minimize the resources used in an underground deployment.

Keywords: Heuristics; Optimization; Planning; Resources; Underground electrical distribution networks.