A Comprehensive Approach to Reliability Optimization of Power Supply to Consumers in Power Interconnection with Weak Tie Lines

A new approach is proposed to ensure the optimum level of power supply reliability of the consumers in a multi-zone power interconnection with limited transfer capabilities of tie lines between the zones at the annual planning of the energy systems operation in a market environment. It is based on a step-by-step solution two problems: of distribution of the total reserve of generating capacity in the power interconnection between the zones, taking into account network restrictions, within the zones – between the operational and maintenance components, optimal for the criterion of reliability and planning maintenance of generating equipment optimal for economic criterion. This approach makes it possible to use for reliability the main means available in the conditions of functioning of electric power systems (EPS) – reserves of generating capacity and planned maintenance of the main equipment. At the same time, reliability optimization is carried out taking into account the interests of different subjects of relations at the management of the power interconnection (System operator, generating companies and consumers)