Abstract:The installation of intelligent power switch devices in distribution networks, capable of receiving dispatch control commands from power system operators, represents a critical initiative for enabling rapid demand-side resource response. To meet emergency load regulation requirements while reducing costs, this paper proposes an optimal configuration method for intelligent power switch devices considering multi-dimensional emergency load regulation objectives. First, based on the coupling mechanism between upper-layer and lower-layer intelligent switch operations in emergency load control systems, the correlation constraints between device installation decision variables and combinations of load shedding execution variables are analytically established. Subsequently, a mixed-integer nonlinear programming model is developed to holistically optimize switch installation/operation costs, emergency load regulation equilibrium, and economic benefits of load shedding. Finally, simulation analyses are conducted using a 9-node primary distribution hybrid system and a real 341-node regional power system in China with actual load data. The results demonstrate that the proposed method effectively leverages the functional characteristics and synergistic advantages of diverse device combinations, achieving enhanced economic efficiency in intelligent switch configuration while satisfying the grid’s load regulation demands.