Modeling and Evaluation of System Reliability for Auchi Distribution Network

Abstract

The Auchi distribution network is an important component of the Nigerian power sector and its reliability is critical in ensuring uninterrupted power supply to consumers. This paper presents the modeling and assessment of the reliability of the Auchi distribution network using reliability indices such as the system average interruption duration index (SAIDI), the system average interruption frequency index (SAIFI) and the customer average interruption duration index (CAIDI). These indices use the interruption duration in time, the interruption frequency and the total number of feeders based on the data obtained from the grid. The analysis results show that in 2016 and 2018, based on SAIFI and SAIDI, the AUCHI feeder was more reliable than the GRA feeder. However, in 2017, the two feeders had the same index. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, the Auchi feeder tends to be more reliable than the GRA feeder based on SAIDI and SAIFI. Likewise, using the customer average interruption duration Index (CAIDI) in 2016, 2018 Auchi feeder is more reliable than the GRA feeder. In 2017, the CAIDI was the same for the two feeders. Furthermore, in 2019, 2020, and 2021, the CAIDI in Auchi Feeder was higher than in GRA Feeder. This means that more consumers are disrupted in Auchi Feeder than in GRA during this time period. Initial reliability data extraction and analysis revealed the reasons of interruptions and their contributions to the Auchi and GRA feeder and system reliability indices. From 2016 to 2021, the most common causes of disruption on the Auchi and GRA feeders were vegetation and J&P rupture, while conductor breakdown was the least common. The network was simulated using the highest transformer loading, which was around 80% of the rated amount. The study’s findings give vital information for power sector decision-makers looking to increase system dependability and reduce downtime, ultimately improving the overall performance of the Auchi Distribution system.