In the wake of increasingly frequent and severe typhoons, coastal cities are grappling with the devastating impacts of waterlogging on their power distribution networks. The disruption of power supply during these events can lead to significant economic losses and social unrest. However, a groundbreaking study led by Hao Dai from Shenzhen Power Supply Co., Ltd., offers a promising solution to this pressing issue.
The research, published in Energies, introduces a novel method for restoring power supply in distribution networks during typhoon-induced waterlogging disasters. This method leverages a collaborative approach involving maintenance teams, mobile energy storage, and telecontrol switches to enhance the resilience of urban power grids.
“Our study addresses the unique challenges posed by waterlogging scenarios, which are often overlooked in existing models,” Dai explains. “By integrating mobile energy storage and considering the impact of flooding on road traffic capacity, we can significantly improve the efficiency and flexibility of post-disaster power system restoration.”
The proposed method involves several key innovations. Firstly, it establishes a damage model for distribution network nodes and lines under wind and flood composite disasters. This model helps in understanding the impact of typhoons and waterlogging on the distribution network, enabling more accurate planning and resource allocation.
Secondly, the study develops an optimization model for post-disaster restoration that incorporates road accessibility and the spatiotemporal characteristics of mobile energy storage and repair teams. This ensures that resources are deployed effectively, even in the face of severe flooding.
The effectiveness of the proposed method was verified through a case study involving a 33-node distribution network and a 30-node transportation network. The results were impressive: the total system load loss during the recovery cycle was reduced by 21.73% compared to fixed-line repair schemes and by 55.26% compared to collaborative scheduling without considering flexible resources.
“This research has significant implications for the energy sector,” says Dai. “By improving the resilience of power systems under abnormal conditions, we can enhance the reliability of power supply and reduce the economic and social impacts of natural disasters.”
The findings of this study could shape future developments in the field by providing a comprehensive framework for post-disaster power system restoration. As climate change continues to exacerbate the frequency and severity of natural disasters, the need for resilient and adaptable power systems has never been greater. This research offers a crucial step forward in achieving that goal, paving the way for more robust and flexible power grids in the face of future challenges.
