Constructive Heuristic Algorithm in Multi-Start Structure Applied in Distribution Systems Expansion Planning

This paper presents a constructive heuristic algorithm in a multi-start structure applied to planning the expansion of medium voltage overhead distribution lines to supply electricity to current and future customers. This algorithm, through its multi-start feature, establishes a set of viable radial topologies, considering the lowest construction costs, lowest electrical losses, and lowest voltage profiles of a system. For this process, the algorithm considers normalized weights and random numbers aiming at a larger search field for a solution. The problem is represented by a nonlinear mathematical model and the solution is constructively obtained in an iterative way. At each iteration, a sensitivity indicator is used to decide which circuit to build. Computational tests were performed to evaluate the algorithm's performance. The results obtained in the simulations showed that the algorithm finds a set of viable and good-quality solutions.