A data-driven topology identification method for low-voltage distribution networks based on the wavelet transform

A comprehensive knowledge of topology is of great importance for the effective operation and maintenance of distribution networks. This paper contributes with a novel data-driven topology identification method for low-voltage distribution networks based on the wavelet transform. The method uses only energy measurements from smart meters, being compatible with the current European smart meter capabilities. The method identifies the feeder and phase topology of single and three-phase customers, even in unbalanced situations. A computationally-efficient methodology to link customers' time-frequency features with their network connection is proposed. The performance of the method is assessed on eleven non-synthetic networks, with a robustness assessment of factors such as network observability, dataset size, measurement errors, and Renewable Energy Sources (RES) penetration. Accuracy rates exceeding 95 % are obtained in most cases, outperforming an energy-conservation approach. A 98 % accuracy can be achieved with a 30-day hourly dataset if at least 80 % of network observability is provided. For lower observability levels, 45 or 60 days of data are needed to reach similar rates. The sensitivity analysis of measurement error demonstrated that it had a negligible influence on the results. The method showed favorable results even in scenarios with high-RES penetration, with accuracy values exceeding 95 %.