In this paper, a mathematical formulation for the islanding of power networks is presented. Given an area of uncertainty in the network, the proposed approach uses mixed integer linear programming to isolate uncertain components and create islands, by intentionally (i) cutting lines, (ii) shedding loads and (iii) switching generators, while maximizing load supply. A key feature of the new method is that network constraints are explicitly included in the MILP problem, resulting in balanced, steady-state feasible DC solutions. A subsequent AC optimal load shedding optimization on the islanded network model provides a feasible AC solution. Numerical simulations on the 24-bus IEEE reliability test system and larger systems demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.
Citation
Technical Report, School of Mathematics, University of Edinburgh, March 2012