Optimal Installation of Different DG Types in Radial Distribution System Considering Load Growth

Abstract

In power distribution network, the gradual increase in system load is a natural process, and it results in increased real and reactive power losses and reduced voltage profile. In this paper, optimal single and multiple installations of different types of distributed generation (DG) units are used to handle annual growth in system load, while satisfying system operational constraints. For load growth study, a predetermined growth in system annual load is considered. Minimization of system total real power loss is taken as the main objective, and optimal location and sizing of different DG types are determined using a hybrid configuration of weight-improved particle swarm optimization (WIPSO) with gravitational search algorithm (GSA) called hybrid WIPSO-GSA algorithm. The effect of load growth is studied using standard 33-bus radial distribution system, and the results illustrate significant reduction in system real and reactive power losses, enhancement in system voltage profile, and improvement in load carrying capacity of distribution feeder sections. Moreover, the economic benefits of DG on system annual load growth are also established. Also, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated by comparing the results with other evolutionary optimization techniques.