Multi-area distribution grids optimization using D-FACTS devices by M-PSO algorithm

Abstract

This paper presents a model for the optimization of a multi-area distribution grid considering the high penetration levels of photovoltaic (PV) resources and electric vehicle charging station (EVCSs) based on distributed flexible AC transmission system (D-FACTS) devices including on-load tap changer (OLTC) transformers and step voltage regulator (SVR) tap control and shunt capacitor (SC) and shunt reactor (ShR) to reduce losses and voltage deviation. The overarching research aim was to avoid the overvoltage caused by power injection by PV sources and the voltage drop caused by charging EVs in distribution grids. The proposed model was designed based on distribution network load flow and was optimized using a modified particle swarm optimization (M-PSO) algorithm. Two different test networks were tested under different scenarios to analyze the proposed model, revealing the efficiency of the proposed model.