A Tabu-search-based algorithm for distribution network restoration to improve reliability and resiliency

Fault restoration techniques have always been a crucial aspect for Distribution System Operators (DSOs). In the last decade, it started to gain more and more importance due to the introduction of output-based regulations where DSOs performances are evaluated according to frequency and duration of energy supply interruptions. The paper presents a Tabu search-based algorithm able to assist distribution network operational engineers in identifying solutions to restore the energy supply after permanent faults. According to the network property, two objective functions are considered to optimize either reliability or resiliency. The mathematical formulation includes the traditional feeders, number of switching operations limit, and radiality constraints. Thanks to the DSO of Milan, Unareti, the proposed method has been tested on a real distribution network to investigate the algorithm's effectiveness.