Cost-benefit analysis of recloser placement for reliability

Abstract

Technical network reliability in electrical distribution networks and the improvement thereof will always be part of utilities and the electricity supply industry. One of the key reliability improvement strategies is additional recloser (breaker) installation on medium voltage networks. The effect of recloser placement on network reliability is investigated. A method of cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is explored, explained and used to analyse the placement of additional reclosers in electrical networks. Costs and benefits are shown to be different when viewed from the perspective of the utility against that of the customer, and this ultimately influence the placement of a newly planned breaker.