Resilient design of large-scale distribution feeders with networked microgrids

•Networked microgrids connected via a medium-voltage distribution system have been previously proposed as a cost-effective solution for improving distribution system resilience during severe weather events.•A method is developed to evaluate the benefits of networked microgrids for improving resilience.•The method is applied to two large real-world distribution systems.•Results confirm that for some combinations of microgrid construction and line hardening costs a combination of line hardening and network microgrids is the most cost-effective solution to meet resilience requirements.