Minimizing Power Losses for Distributed Generation (DG) Placements by Considering Voltage Profiles on Distribution Lines for Different Loads Using Genetic Algorithm Methods

Abstract

The need for electrical energy is increasing in line with the increase in population and increasing progress in welfare. On the other hand, the availability of fossil fuels as the main fuel in generating electricity is dwindling; so, there is a need for policies that require the use of environmentally friendly renewable energy. The utilization of renewable energy does not necessarily apply freely due to several constraints. One effort is a generator or distributed generation (DG) which is placed in the distribution line close to the load. The utilization of DG must go through planning, especially the large capacity and position on the bus and on the feeder, which will result in small network losses and a voltage profile that meets tolerance limits. Thus, the purpose of this study is to optimize to obtain the capacity and location of the DG calculated by considering the variation in the load through the genetic algorithm method. As a result, the optimal DG position for normal load is obtained on bus 18, bus 20, and bus 32 with capacities of 190 kW, 463 kW, and 370 kW, respectively. The losses obtained decreased from 54.6733 kW to 9.9447 kW, and the voltage profile was maintained within the specified limits. Optimization was carried out for decreasing and increasing loads in percent. The result is that losses can be minimized, and the voltage profile remains within the required limits. The lower the load, the more stable the voltage and the smaller the losses; meanwhile, the larger the load, the more fluctuating the voltage is, but still within the limits specified in the optimization.