Two heuristic methods are proposed to find an effective and fast solution in modern power distribution networks. For solving the service restoration problem in distribution networks, switch selection indices based on an analytic approach and a practicable heuristic graph-based method are given. The formulation of the problem includes four different objective functions: 1) maximizing the total load restored; 2) minimizing the number of switching operations; 3) maximizing the top priority restored load; 4) minimizing load shedding. A suitable evaluation of switch indices is used for all candidate tie switches (TSs) in the network to find the best solution and decrease the number of switching operations. A new graph-based approach is utilized for finding the best sectionalizes switch (SS) and minimizing the voltage drop. The accuracy and the validity of the approach are tested in two standard electrical distribution networks. The results of the approach are used for IEEE 69-bus and IEEE 119-bus test case. © The Author(s) 2015.
