Optimization of Distribution Network Configuration: an Experimental Testbed in the InteGRIDy Project Framework

InteGRIDy is a H2020 project aiming at integrating cutting-edge technologies, solutions and mechanisms in a scalable Cross-Functional Platform to address effectively the issues arising from the increasing share of intermittent renewable energy sources, avoiding reduction of power system performance and reliability, and costs for distribution network refurbishing. In this framework, the present paper describes the smart grid architecture and main functionalities put in place in the Italian pilot of San Severino Marche. A major focus regards the strategies implemented to optimize the medium voltage grid configuration: a genetic algorithm, a Monte Carlo method and a heuristic approach are used and benchmarked against an exhaustive research. Energy losses are assumed as objective function of the optimization process.