Multi-objective optimal allocation of photovoltaic-based distributed generators in radial distribution system

Abstract

This paper deals with the optimal allocation of photovoltaic (PV) distributed generators (DG) to minimize total active power loss and voltage deviation in radial distribution networks. The optimization problem is formulated as Mixed-Integer Non-Linear Programming (MINLP) by incorporating binary variables into the standard optimal power flow (OPF). The optimal allocation problem was modeled in General Algebraic Modelling System (GAMS) environment and then solved using GAMS's integrated BONMIN solver. The proposed method was evaluated through the simulation on the IEEE 33-bus test system considering a 24-hour time interval. The insolation curve was calculated for the latitude of 42 on the 21st of June using the online calculator. while the load profile was generated because it is the summer day. The results showed that optimally allocated PV units contribute to significant loss reduction and voltage profile improvement. Also, the results show that the effect of power loss and voltage deviation reduction is increasing with the higher penetration of optimally allocated PV arrays.