Combined Optimal Configuration of μPMU for Three-phase Unbalanced Distribution Network Considering Network Reconstruction

The existing optimal configuration methods of microphasor measurement units (μPMUs) fail to consider the frequent changes in the actual topology of distribution networks and the three-phase imbalance. Therefore, this paper proposes a combined optimal configuration method of μPMUs for three-phase unbalanced distribution networks considering network reconfiguration. Firstly, based on the three-phase unbalanced characteristics of distribution networks, the concept of zero-injection phase is put forward, and its effect on the local observability of the network is analyzed. Incorporating zero-injection phases into the μPMU configuration rules can effectively reduce the number of μPMUs that need to be configured for complete observability of the network. Secondly, to deal with the problem of partial unobservability caused by the changes in the topology of distribution networks, an optimal configuration model of μPMUs considering the dynamic reconfiguration of three-phase unbalanced distribution networks is proposed. This model takes the typical topology obtained by dynamic reconfiguration solution as the basis for μPMU configuration, and considers the cost differences between three-phase and single-phase μPMU configuration. While minimizing the combined configuration cost of μPMUs, the system measurement redundancy is improved. Finally, taking the IEEE 34-bus and IEEE 123-bus systems as cases for simulation verification, the results show that the proposed model can adapt to the changes in the topology of distribution networks and significantly reduce the configuration cost of μPMUs. © 2025 Automation of Electric Power Systems Press. All rights reserved.