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Electric power systems try to maximize resilience by various enhancement strategies as preventive and corrective actions against extreme weather events. This paper presents an operational network reconfiguration strategy during a high wind event to strengthen the resiliency of distribution networks. In the proposed resilience enhancement strategy, a bi-level optimization problem is formulated with two conflicting objectives (i) maximizing grid resilience and (ii) realize the primary objective by a minimum number of out-of-service lines (OSLs) switching operations. Furthermore, the algorithm considers the priority of loads, which is an important characteristic of modern distribution grids.The optimization problem is solved by the bi-level genetic algorithm (BiGA). The IEEE 33-bus network is utilized to demonstrate the application of the developed algorithm. The simulation results show a significant improvement in the resiliency of the tested network and reveal that switching operations can be used effectively to increase the resiliency of distribution networks against natural disasters. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis is performed to show the effectiveness of the proposed approach for finding the global optimal point. The proposed network reconfiguration strategy helps to prepare for severe weather conditions.

Purpose This paper aims to propose a novel matrix-based systematic approach for vulnerability assessment. Design/methodology/approach The proposed method consists of two major steps. First, the power network is modeled as a topological combination of edges (transmission lines, transformers, etc.) and nodes (buses, substations, etc.). The second step is to use an axiomatic design-based index for topology analysis. This index is based on the systematic counting of possible routes from the start (generators) to destination (loads), considering load importance, before and after a disruption. Findings The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated through an illustrative example and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 14-bus power system. It was shown that the load’s importance influences the results of the vulnerability analysis. The proposed method has some advantages over traditional graph theory such as an explicit description of multiple transmission nodes and assets with multiple conversion processes. Furthermore, it would help the power grid operators and asset investment managers to be better to assess the vulnerable components. Research limitations/implications The proposed method can be used in planning, optimization, robustness and hardening of power systems. Originality/value The paper presents a matrix-based systematic approach to evaluate and quantify the vulnerability of the power grid’s components.

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