Optimal location of a single distributed generation unit in power systems

Abstract

Generally, electrical power distribution networks are considered to be a significant part of the energy supply chain. The main concept behind distributed generation (DG) units is based on the use of small electrical power plants that are directly connected to the electric system near to customers. The reduction of power losses this engenders can decrease the electric power that flows into distribution system feeders, leading to positive impacts on voltage stability, voltage profile, and the capacity of the electrical network. Additionally, from the perspective of utility, DG units allocated near to loads can dramatically decrease power losses in electrical distribution networks. However, DG units must be allocated optimally and correctly to avoid adverse results on electric networks in terms of voltage profiles and power losses throughout the whole network. Thus, this paper presents a simple way to determine optimal location for DG units in both mesh and radial systems by using conventional iterative methods, with the aim of reducing the overall electrical power losses and enhancing the voltage of the network. Both the Newton-Raphson method and a backward and forward method were implemented in a MATLAB environment to solve the optimization problem in an IEEE 14 bus meshed system and an IEEE 33 bus radial system.