Coordinated Conservation Voltage Reduction and Network Topology Reconfiguration in Active Distribution Networks

Abstract

Distribution networks rely on conservation voltage reduction (CVR) and network topology reconfiguration (NTR) to manage demand, distributed energy resources (DERs), and tighter operating margins. Yet these strategies are typically deployed independently, despite coupled effects on feeder voltages, losses, and loading. This paper addresses that gap by developing a day-ahead mixed-integer second order cone programming (MISOCP) framework that jointly optimizes feeder head voltage control and network reconfiguration. The formulation incorporates AC branch flow constraints, ZIP load models, DERs, battery energy storage systems, and multi substation radiality. Using modified IEEE 33 bus and 123 bus systems, four configurations isolate the individual and coordinated effects of CVR and NTR. On the 33-bus system under mixed ZIP loading, NTR reduces active energy loss by 2.50%, while coordinated operation reduces it by 2.91% relative to SDN and produces a 2.46% CVR induced active load reduction relative to SDNTR. Under constant impedance loading, coordinated operation reduces active energy loss by 17.65% relative to SDN, while CVR reduces active load by 14.61% relative to SDNTR. DER portfolio scaling shows a nonmonotonic coordinated load reduction response, strongest at 20% penetration and decreasing at higher levels. On the 123 bus system, NTR reduces losses by 19.3%, while CVR reduces voltage dependent load energy by 2.3 to 2.4%. Under loading stress, SDN becomes infeasible at 120% loading, whereas CEDNTR remains feasible. Overall, the results demonstrate complementary, operating condition dependent benefits shaped by load composition, DER portfolio scaling, feeder topology, voltage margins, and source constraints, highlighting the value of joint optimization.