Renewable energy hosting capacity assessment in distribution networks based on multi‐strategy improved whale optimization algorithm

Abstract

AbstractThe increasing penetration of distributed renewable energy poses significant challenges to the safety and stability of distribution system, rendering the renewable energy hosting capacity of distribution networks a major concern. To effectively evaluate the renewable energy hosting capacity in distribution networks, this paper introduces a comprehensive hosting capacity assessment model considering various safety and stability constraints. Given the numerous non‐linear constraints inherent in the hosting capacity assessment model for distribution networks, a multi‐strategy improved Whale Optimization Algorithm is proposed. Improvements are made to the population initialization and population position update strategies, and a mutation strategy is introduced to prevent premature convergence, thereby enhancing the algorithm's performance. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed model and the method is validated through the utilization of three distribution systems. Moreover, the key factors that restrict the improvement of hosting capacity are revealed from the perspective of distribution network topology.