Reliability of aged distribution networks: can the automation be the solution in the long term?

This paper analyzes long term potential strategies against the increasing of sustained interruptions due to ageing in distribution networks. A methodology based on a sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) algorithm, which permits simulating the reliability of distribution networks by considering the sequence of events caused by a network fault, is used. The technique may be used to compare different strategies for enhancing network reliability; in particular, the deployment of distribution automation and the adoption of intentional islanding with distributed generation are investigated. The studies performed shown that a wider use of network automation cannot be sufficient to face the effects of ageing, and that in few years, despite the investments sustained, the performances of distribution networks will be close to those that they have already reached. The presented analysis is of interest to distribution companies which have to understand the long term benefits of their investments.