Difference and connection between distribution network reconfiguration and distribution network planning?

The distribution system is characterized by a ring structure and open loop operation. The distribution system contains a large number of normally-closed switches and a small number of normally-open switches. Under normal operating conditions, the distribution dispatcher periodically (e.g., seasonally) carries out knife gate operations to adjust the network structure (reconfiguration of the network). Through network reconfiguration, on the one hand, to balance the load, eliminate overload, improve the quality of supply voltage; on the other hand, to reduce network losses, improve the economy of the system. In case of fault, close some normally open switches to isolate the faulty branch circuit. At the same time open some of the normally closed knife gate, so that the system to maintain open-loop operation state, the fault branch of the load all or part of the transfer to another feeder or another branch of the same feeder. Therefore, network reconfiguration is an important means to improve the security and economy of the distribution system. A hot summer morning, a large city, with a large number of air conditioning gradually turned on, the power load climbed straight up, approaching the maximum value of the power grid can withstand. Active distribution network initiative as, decisively issued a "precise guidance" instructions, so that some customers home air conditioning shutdown. After a few minutes, the load curve leveled off and the grid risk was reduced. Optimizing the operation of the distribution system can be achieved through the reconfiguration of the distribution network, the reconfiguration of the distribution network is based on the load changes to change the topology of the distribution network to achieve the optimal operation of the system.