Enhancing Distribution System Resiliency Through Techno-Economic Planning of DG & SOP using Optimization with Reconfigurations

Modern power distribution networks are increasingly exposed to extreme events, cyberattacks, and stochastic load variations, thereby necessitating enhanced resiliency and reliability for sustainable operation. Distributed Generation (DG) and Soft Open Points (SOP) offer potential remedies to improve efficiency and operational flexibility; however, their combined impact under stochastic scenario conditions remains insufficiently explored. To address this gap, a multi-objective optimization framework is developed that incorporates six key performance indices: active and reactive power losses, voltage deviation, short-circuit current, reliability, and resilience. The formulated problem is solved using PUMA Optimization (PO) and Teaching–Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO) algorithms. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is validated on IEEE 33-bus and 118-bus radial distribution systems (RDS) under both normal and contingency scenarios. Simulation results demonstrate that optimal integration of DG and SOP significantly reduces power losses, enhances voltage profiles, and improves overall system resilience and reliability. Furthermore, the PO algorithm consistently outperforms the TLBO in terms of convergence characteristics and in achieving superior trade-offs among conflicting objectives. Reliability assessment confirms a substantial reduction in service interruptions while maintaining a high system reliability level. From an economic perspective, the proposed approach ensures effective resource allocation and loss minimization, resulting in significant cost savings and enhanced benefit performance. Overall, integrating DG and SOP using the PO algorithm provides a robust, effective, and scalable solution for modern distribution networks. Additionally, the proposed framework promotes efficient resource use and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping to achieve SDGs 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).