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This paper presents a methodology for switching optimization in the distribution network on the occasion of a fault, or to proceed a scheduled outage to make a preventive maintenance service. Additionally, a correspondent software (called CEMOP) has been developed for reconfiguration purposes due to forced or scheduled outages on distribution networks, considering parallel interconnection with other feeders. This project has been developed in partnership with CEMAR, an electric utility located at the northeast of Brazil which supplies approximately 1.8 million customers (approximately 6.6 million inhabitants), in the state of Maranhão, in Brazil.

The calculation of short-circuit currents in primary feeders is highly influenced by parameters which may have a considerable degree of uncertainty in their assessment. Thus, there is a reasonable possibility that the results of short-circuit calculated be inaccurate, compromising the adjustment of the protection system of primary feeders. Thereby, this paper presents a new methodology for locating faults on primary feeders that aims equalize these issues, providing basically proper treatment to the parameters that can accommodate uncertainties. This methodology was implemented in a software which presented great performance in localizing faults in the electric distribution network.

This paper presents an evaluation methodology of investments for medium voltage networks and improvement of reliability indices, as proposed by ANEEL (Brazilian Government Regulation Agency), in Resolution 024/2000. This methodology considers operation and maintenance actions as alternatives to expanding the electrical system. This objective is accomplished by using an aggregate investment planning methodology that proposes appropriate modeling concerning: the network and the load representation, the evaluation of the operational performance and the network expansion model. In this model the following operation and maintenance actions were included: tree trimming, compact network installation, recloser installation, network rebuilding, lightning-arrester (maintenance actions); and increasing of maintenance teams. These actions allow the improvement of reliability indices. The competition between expansion reinforcements, operation and maintenance actions is carried out by a benefit/cost evaluation, which was expressed by the Initial Profitability Rate of Investment (IPRI), limited to the annual budget.

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