Development of a MATLAB-GAMS Framework for Solving the Problem Regarding the Optimal Location and Sizing of PV Sources in Distribution Networks

Abstract

This paper addresses the planning problem regarding the location and sizing of PV generators in distribution networks with a radial topology. This problem is mathematically modeled using a mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model, which seeks to reduce the total annual operating costs of the system for a planning horizon of 20 years. The objective function used in this paper comprises three elements: (i) the energy purchase costs at the substation node (i.e., the main supply node), (ii) the investment costs for the integration of PV generators, and (iii) the costs associated with the operation and maintenance of these devices. To solve this problem, the interconnection of MATLAB and GAMS software is proposed, while using a master–slave methodology, with which a high-quality solution to this problem is achieved. In the master stage, the MATLAB software is used as a tool to program a discrete version of the sine–cosine algorithm (DSCA), which determines the locations where the PV generators are to be installed. In the slave stage, using one of the solvers of the GAMS software (BONMIN) with the known locations of the PV generators, the MINLP model representing the problem to be studied is solved in order to find the value of the objective function and the nominal power of the PV generators. The numerical results achieved in the IEEE 33- and 69-node systems are compared with the mixed-integer conic programming model solution reported in the specialized literature, thus demonstrating the efficiency and robustness of the proposed optimization methodology.