Simultaneous Network Reconfiguration and Sizing of Distributed Generation

Abstract

This chapter introduces simultaneous optimization concept of Network Reconfiguration and Distributed Generation sizing. The main objective of the introduced concept is to reduce the real power loss and improve the overall voltage profile in the electric distribution network through optimal network reconfiguration and Distributed Generation sizing, while at the same time satisfy the system operating constraints. The meta-heuristic methods have been applied in the optimization process due to its excellent capability for searching optimal solution in a complex problem. The applied meta-heuristics methods are Genetic Algorithm, Evolutionary Programming, Particle Swarm Optimization, Artificial Bee Colony and their respective modified types. A detail performance analysis is carried out on IEEE 33-bus systems to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed concept. Through simultaneous optimization, it was found that power loss reduction is more as compared to conducting reconfiguration or DG sizing approach alone. The test result also indicated that Evolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization produced better result in terms of power loss and voltage profile than other methods.