Optimal location of Power Quality Monitors in distribution grids based on MRA methodology

Distribution grids currently face news paradigms where Power Quality (PQ) has become one of the most important aspects for distribution system operators (DSO) and consumers. To ensure a PQ within the limits defined by international standards, there is a permanent need to monitor all parameters associated with the distributed voltage by the grid. This task is carried out using the installation of Power Quality Monitors (PQM) at strategic points of the grid. The main aim of this paper is to define a methodology to optimize the best location for the PQM installation. To achieve this target the Monitor Reach Area (MRA) matrix is calculated and an Integer Linear Programming (ILP) optimization model was used to find the best solution. Two case studies were carried out, in which residual voltage values were observed when three-phase short circuits are applied to all nodes. The results obtained show the good effectiveness of the developed method, presenting solutions that allow the total monitoring of the studied networks, using the smallest possible number of PQMs. In this way, it is possible for the DSO to keep the network monitored in real-time with huge efficiency gains.