Application of Optimal Network Reconfiguration for Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Enhancement of Distribution System Using Heap-Based Optimizer

Abstract

A distribution system’s network reconfiguration (NR) is the process of changing the status of the switches to change the topology of the feeders. Using optimal NR at various network load levels, this research proposed an economical way for improving the voltage profile and reducing power loss in distribution systems. A new metaheuristic Heap-based optimizer based on the corporate rank hierarchy is used to solve the optimization problem in order to find the optimal radial distribution network. The objective functions used in this article include voltage profile improvement, power loss reduction, reduction of operation cost, and minimization of gas emissions. This novel technique provides accurate results while avoiding the issue of premature convergence and requires fewer control parameter settings. The proposed method is evaluated at three different load levels on a standard IEEE 33-bus test system, and the simulation results are compared to those of other optimization methods published in the literature, demonstrating that the proposed method improves the system voltage profile while minimizing losses and power costs, establishing that this technique is effective in finding the best result. The Wilcoxon and Friedman tests are also used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed technique.