PYORPS: an open-source tool for automated power line routing

Abstract

This paper presents PYORPS, an open-source tool designed to automate the route planning process for underground cables in power systems using high-resolution raster geodata for least-cost path analyses. Although initially developed for underground cable routing of distribution grids, it can be adapted for many path-finding tasks. PYORPS allows flexibility in input data and neighbourhood selection to calibrate accuracy and performance. A case study demonstrates how PYORPS can be integrated into a distribution grid planning process, optimizing power line routes based on cost and environmental considerations.