A new optimization model for distribution substation siting, sizing, and timing

This paper presents a new planning optimization model for distribution substation siting, sizing, and timing. The proposed model involves using linear functions to express the total cost function. The developed model includes different electrical constraints such as voltage drops, substation and transformer capacities, power flow, and radial flow constraints. The proposed planning problem is formulated as a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) problem to avoid the use of nonlinear programming and thus avoiding the possibility of getting trapped in local solutions. A numerical example is presented to validate the effectiveness of the developed model.