Multi-Stage Optimal Placement of Branch PMU in Active Distribution Network

Abstract The penetration of distributed generation and electric vehicles requires advanced monitoring and control strategies to maintain the reliable operation of active distribution network (ADN). Phasor measurement unit (PMU), as an advanced measuring device, has been applied in the operation of transmission systems for decades. Recently, it is anticipated that PMUs can be adopted in the distribution network. In this paper, the optimal branch PMU (BPMU) placement is studied. First, an optimization model for the multi-stage BPMU placement is established considering the observability of ADN. Moreover, the weights of buses are designed to consider the influence of uncertain renewable energy generation and loads. Then, probabilistic load flow (PLF) is used to solve power flow with uncertainties, and weights of buses are obtained based on probability distributions of voltage magnitude. Finally, binary integer programming (BIP) is adopted to obtain the locations of BPMUs. The proposed method is tested on customized IEEE 33-bus and PG&E 69-bus distribution network, and the results are compared with those considering other methods.