A Data-Driven Approach for Topology Correction in Low Voltage Networks with DERs

Abstract: This paper introduces a data-driven topology identification and correction approach for low-voltage distribution networks (LVDNs) combined with a time-based smart meter data selection strategy, aiming to correct outdated recordings and identify the missed recordings. The proposed approach solely relies on voltage magnitude measurements, releasing privacy concerns and measurement burdens. It enables the distribution system operators to identify switch states through supervised learning algorithms, as well as determine user-feeder connections and phase labels of customers by a modified Hierarchical Clustering algorithm. To address the similarity among smart meter (SM) data caused by distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems, a time-based SM data selection strategy is combined with the proposed correlation analysis. The feasibility and robustness of the proposed approach are validated using modified real-world LVDNs and multiple incomplete SM datasets collected from customers in the Netherlands. The results demonstrate that the time-based SM data selection strategy effectively mitigates their impact on phase identification, and the corrected topology not only improves network observability but also supports network operators in load balancing and PV consumption.