Optimal Planning and Deployment of Overhead and Underground Electrical Distribution Networks

This project addresses the critical need, driven by regulations such as Ministerial Agreement N° 301 in Ecuador, to modernize electrical distribution networks through the integration of technologies like distributed generation and energy storage. The core problem involves a lack of optimal technical and economic planning, leading to high energy losses, low supply reliability, and inadequate equipment sizing. The proposed solution is the development of a planning model to generate an economically viable roadmap for implementing hybrid distribution networks (overhead and underground). The fundamental objective is to minimize implementation costs and operational losses while maximizing the utilization of existing infrastructure, thereby ensuring a safe, reliable, high-quality electrical service compliant with industry standards to meet current and future demand.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To develop an optimal planning model for hybrid electrical distribution networks, aiming to provide a roadmap that minimizes implementation costs and maximizes equipment utilization, while ensuring a high-quality, safe, and reliable energy supply.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Transmission and distribution of electrical energy