Optimal Placement and Sizing Problem for Power Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Improvement of Distribution Networks under Seasonal Loads Using Harris Hawks Optimizer

Abstract

Improving efficiency with sustainable radial distribution networks (RDNs) is challenging for larger systems and small grid-connected RDNs. In this paper, the optimal placement of DGs with the Harris hawks optimizer (HHO) under seasonal load demands is proposed to simultaneously reduce total active and reactive power losses and minimize bus voltage drops with the consideration of operational constraints of RDNs. HHO is a newly inspired metaheuristic optimization algorithm primarily based on the Harris hawks’ intelligent behaviors during the chasing of the prey. Furthermore, the authors have investigated four stages of DGs. The first stage involves the optimal allocation of one DG. The second stage includes an investigation with two DGs, the third stage considers three DGs, and the fourth stage investigates the integration of four DGs. The effectiveness of the applied HHO is validated on IEEE 33 and 69 bus RDNs, and results are analyzed by comparing with the standard optimization methods. The Big-O test is also executed for statistical analysis with standard algorithms. The simulation results reveal the better performance of the applied HHO under different circumstances than other algorithms. Furthermore, the total active and reactive power losses and bus voltage drops are improved by adding more DGs into IEEE 33 and 69 bus RDNs.