Distributed Generation Research Articles

Degradation mechanism and assessment for different cathode based commercial pouch cells under different pressure boundary conditions

Lithium-ion pouch cell exhibits expansion behavior during cycling, which determines the overall performance and external pressure evolution. It is significant to reveal the impact of pressure boundary conditions on battery degradation. This study investigated the degradation mechanism of different cathode-based pouch cells (LiFePO4 (LFP) and Li(Ni0.6Co0.2Mn0.2)O2 (NCM622)) under four distinct pressure boundary conditions (I-II. clamping with two foam pads having varying compression force deflection (CFD) respectively, III. without foam pad, IV. unpressurized). One hundred of pre-experiment cycles determined the optimal external pressure (12.5 kPa) to slow down the degradation process. Subsequently, multi-cell paralleled cycling experiments were conducted for 1000 cycles. The capacity degradation of LFP and NCM cells with the optimal condition was 6.0 % and 12.6 % less than that of unpressurized cells. The electrochemical tests indicated that unpressurized cells had the fastest rate of lithium-ion loss, which is related to solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film growth and lithium plating. Post-mortem characterization analysis further revealed that the pressure boundary condition is crucial for the electrode morphology, pressure distribution, and gas generation, which affect battery degradation. The pressurized cells’ surface exhibited fewer instances of lithium plating. With the stiff foam clamped, pouch cell swelling can be absorbed while maintaining contact between cell components, resulting in fewer electrode folds and cracks. This study provides valuable insights for designing long-lifespan battery modules or packs.

Effect of DG penetration on hybrid relay coordination using user-defined dual-setting directional overcurrent relays and distance relays

ABSTRACT The efficient coordination of the distance and directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) is jeopardized by the massive deployment of renewable distributed generation (DG) into electrical power networks. The two key aspects influencing the relay coordination are the bidirectional flow of current and increased short-circuit currents due to DG integration. This study investigates the consequences of variable DG penetration on the distance and dual-setting DOCRs (DS-DOCRs) coordination. As a result, common optimal relay settings have been obtained that can be utilized for variable DG penetration levels in modified IEEE-14 bus test system. For the distance relays (DRs), a fixed zone 1 and variable zone 2 operation have been considered. The proposed combined protection scheme is tested on a modified IEEE-14 bus test system using DS-DOCRs and DRs. The relay coordination problem is formulated as a constrained non-linear optimization problem and solved by genetic algorithm (GA) and gray wolf optimization (GWO). In this paper, DS-DOCRs with user-defined relay characteristics have demonstrated superior performance in line protection compared to conventional DOCRs with normal inverse (NI) characteristics. In addition, a comprehensive comparative analysis of optimization algorithms has been performed between GA and GWO algorithms.

A Wide-Range TCSC Based ADN in Mountainous Areas Considering Hydropower-Photovoltaic-ESS Complementarity.

Due to the radial network structures, small cross-sectional lines, and light loads characteristic of existing AC distribution networks in mountainous areas, the development of active distribution networks (ADNs) in these regions has revealed significant issues with integrating distributed generation (DGs) and consuming renewable energy. Focusing on this issue, this paper proposes a wide-range thyristor-controlled series compensation (TCSC)-based ADN and presents a deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based optimal operation strategy. This strategy takes into account the complementarity of hydropower, photovoltaic (PV) systems, and energy storage systems (ESSs) to enhance the capacity for consuming renewable energy. In the proposed ADN, a wide-range TCSC connects the sub-networks where PV and hydropower systems are located, with ESSs configured for each renewable energy generation. The designed wide-range TCSC allows for power reversal and improves power delivery efficiency, providing conditions for the optimization operation. The optimal operation issue is formulated as a Markov decision process (MDP) with continuous action space and solved using the twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3) algorithm. The optimal objective is to maximize the consumption of renewable energy sources (RESs) and minimize line losses by coordinating the charging/discharging of ESSs with the operation mode of the TCSC. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Effect of multi-unit and multi-type DG installation using integrated optimization technique in distribution power system planning

With the rise in load demand, improving the voltage profile and reducing line loss is vital to ensure reliable power delivery to the customer. However, increasing power plant generation capacity is limited by environmental and economic factors, requiring a careful assessment of locally optimal options. Distributed Generation (DG) installation into the electricity grid is one of the reliable remedial actions to ensure a smooth power delivery. Installation of DG requires an optimization process to identify the appropriate placement and sizing. Inaccurate sizing and placement of the DG installation may result to over-compensation or under-compensation phenomena. This paper proposes a novel approach termed the Integrated Immune Moth Flame Evolutionary Programming technique (IIMFEP) for optimizing the installation of DG sources in distribution systems. It handles various scenarios, including multi-DG single-type and multi-DG multi-type installations, with the main objective of minimizing power loss in the system. This technique employs a hybrid approach that combines elements of immune algorithms, moth flame optimization, and evolutionary programming to achieve more accurate and efficient results. Two cases were considered in this study termed Case 1 and Case 2. Results in Case 1 discovered that the optimal sizing and placement of four Type III DGs exhibit the lowest power loss worth 2.74 kW (98.78 % reduction) for the 69-Bus RDS, while for the 118-Bus RDS the power loss is 319.89 kW (75.36 % reduction). In Case Study 2, the combination of DG Types I and III provided the highest power loss reduction. With one DG Type I and two DG Type III units installed, power loss was reduced by 97.15 % to 6.41 kW for the 69-Bus RDS and by 62.01 % to 493.21 kW for the 118-Bus RDS. The proposed IIMFEP managed to alleviate the setback experienced in the traditional EP, AIS and MFO which found to be stuck at local optimum. The IIMFEP method is compared to Moth Flame Optimization, Artificial Immune System and Evolutionary Programming and validated using the IEEE 69-Bus and 118-Bus Radial Distribution Systems, resulting in outstanding performance.

Voltage regulation and energy loss minimization for distribution networks with high photovoltaic penetration and EV charging stations using dual-stage model predictive control

The widespread integration of photovoltaic (PV) units and controllable loads like electric vehicles (EVs) might cause uncertain voltage fluctuations quite frequently. The reactive power from distributed generation (DG) units and EV charging stations (EVCSs) can effectively be used along with conventional devices like on-load tap changer (OLTC) to successfully control network voltages in real-time, with multi-time scale coordination. However, the control of a large number of available resources, with reliable communication among them becomes a complex task. Moreover, the substantial real-time data set amassed through the deployment of measurement devices across the network increases both cost and computational intricacies. This paper presents a novel approach, employing a time decomposition-based dual-stage model predictive control (MPC) with a reduced model control framework for voltage control and energy loss minimization in active distribution networks (ADNs), by significantly reducing the number of measuring devices. A minimum global set of available control resources is identified for real-time control, aiming to mitigate control complexity and minimize the demand for heavy communication. The proposed control strategy is validated on the 33-bus distribution network and modified IEEE 123-bus distributed network, under high PV penetration and EV charging stations. It is seen that the proposed reduced model framework with very limited measuring devices and control equipment can effectively regulate the voltages with a standard deviation of 0.0059 p.u. and 0.0035 p.u. as compared to the full order system model, for 33-bus network and IEEE 123-bus network, respectively. Furthermore, there is a net 23.24% reduction in energy losses when power loss minimization is considered along with the minimization of voltage deviations in the 33-bus network.

EXPERIMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF CONSUMER UNBALANCE AND NONLINEARITY EFFECTS IN THREE-PHASE NETWORKS WITHOUT NEUTRAL CONDUCTOR

The present study proposes a feedforward angle droop strategy based on a discrete-time mathematical model for operation dispatchable distributed generation (DG) units connected directly or through voltage source converters (VSC) to the microgrid. These units should supply their local and common loads. Droop coefficients should be increased to improve power division between different DG units. Also, a time delay in systems’ state variables and controller input is a disruptive parameter for the control system's performance. These two parameters have negative effects on network stability. To ensure the stability of the closed-loop system, a predictive sliding mode controller can be used based on discrete-time systems. However, this strategy cannot reduce the chattering phenomenon. This paper discusses the effect of time delay and increases in droop angle coefficients on the whole system and how these impacts can be eliminated. So, a combination of integral sliding mode controller (ISMC), composite nonlinear feedback (CNF), and sliding mode learning control (SMC), which is called hybrid SMC, is used with an angle droop controller.

THE EFFECTS OF HYBRID SLIDING MODE LEARNING CONTROL AND FEEDFORWARD ANGLE DROOP CONTROLLER WITH HIGH DROOP GAIN IN HYBRID MICROGRID WITH LOAD UNCERTAINTY AND NONLINEARITY

The present study proposes a feedforward angle droop strategy based on a discrete-time mathematical model for operation dispatchable distributed generation (DG) units connected directly or through voltage source converters (VSC) to the microgrid. These units should supply their local and common loads. Droop coefficients should be increased to improve power division between different DG units. Also, a time delay in systems’ state variables and controller input is a disruptive parameter for the control system's performance. These two parameters have negative effects on network stability. To ensure the stability of the closed-loop system, a predictive sliding mode controller can be used based on discrete-time systems. However, this strategy cannot reduce the chattering phenomenon. This paper discusses the effect of time delay and increases in droop angle coefficients on the whole system and how these impacts can be eliminated. So, a combination of integral sliding mode controller (ISMC), composite nonlinear feedback (CNF), and sliding mode learning control (SMC), which is called hybrid SMC, is used with an angle droop controller.

Coordinated Planning of Soft Open Points and Energy Storage Systems to Enhance Flexibility of Distribution Networks

With the large-scale penetration of distributed generation (DG), the volatility problems of active distribution networks (ADNs) have become more prominent, which can no longer be met by traditional regulation means and need to be regulated by introducing flexible resources. Soft open points (SOP) and energy storage systems (ESS) can regulate the tidal currents on spatial and temporal scales, respectively, to improve the flexibility of ADN. To this end, in-depth consideration of DG admission is given to establish flexibility assessment indicators from the power side of ADN. The conditional deep convolution generative adversarial network (C-DCGAN) is used to generate the output scenario of DG. On this basis, the SOP and ESS two-layer planning models, which take account of the potential for improvement in the flexibility of ADN, are constructed. Among them, the upper layer is the site selection and volume determination layer, which considers the economy of the system with the optimization objective of minimizing the annual integrated cost; the lower layer is the operation optimization layer, which considers the flexibility of the system and takes the highest average daily flexibility level as the optimization objective. The planning model is solved using genetic algorithm-particle swarm optimization (GA-PSO) and second-order cone programming (SOCP). The case analysis verifies the rationality and effectiveness of the planning model.

Load frequency control performance enhancement of an electric vehicle integrated time-delay multi-microgrid system

ABSTRACT Frequency control in a microgrid (μG) is problematic due to low inertia of distributed generators (DGs) and uncertainty of the renewable energy source-dependent DGs. Consequently, deploying distributed storage units (DSUs) in a μG is crucial for quickly arresting frequency deviations. The electric vehicle (EV) technology, as DSU, is being preferred over conventional energy storage due to its lower cost and slower degradation rate, facilitating demand side response in a μG. The adoption of the EV technology necessitates an open communication infrastructure in the μG, with a pre-existing communication time delay (CTD). This article explores the impact of EV integration on load frequency control (LFC) performance of a multi-microgrid (MμG) system and determines an optimal CTD value simultaneously. A cyclical parthenogenesis algorithm-optimized 2DOF-FOPID controller is implemented to obtain dynamic responses of the MμG system. Simulation results reveal significant improvements in dynamic responses when integrating EVs in the MμG, with a 97.33% increase in objective function value. The recommended controller also outperforms standard controllers in terms of how quickly frequency and tie-line power variations settle down to zero. Thus, the proposed controller meets the LFC requirements. Robustness of the proposed LFC scheme is tested against parametric variations in the MμG system.

Assessing the diffusion of photovoltaic technology and electric vehicles using system dynamics modeling

Amidst the sweeping changes in the global electricity and automotive sectors, we observe a rapid surge in the proliferation of distributed generation (DG) and electric vehicles (EVs), primarily driven by the widespread deployment of photovoltaic systems. The widespread embrace of EVs necessitates a dual approach of financial incentives and infrastructure development to enhance the appeal of these vehicles. The findings presented in this paper hold significant importance for policymakers, underscoring the urgency of transitioning toward sustainable decentralized power systems and promoting EV adoption. While this transition offers promising opportunities, it also presents formidable challenges. Successful integration of DG and EVs demands careful attention to policy and regulatory frameworks. Some experts advocate for simultaneous adjustments in design, addressing mobility limitations and offering incentives for DG and EVs. Given the multitude of uncertainties, the authors suggest employing a system dynamics model to analyze the impact of photovoltaic technology and EV diffusion. The paper concludes that, within the Colombian context, the potential exists, under specific conditions, to increase the adoption of solar panels and EVs in households. This, in turn, contributes to a reduction in CO2 emissions and a transformative shift in the composition of the automotive fleet toward EVs.

Optimal energy management via day-ahead scheduling considering renewable energy and demand response in smart grids

The energy optimization in smart power grids (SPGs) is crucial for ensuring efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective energy management. However, the uncertainty and stochastic nature of distributed generations (DGs) and loads pose significant challenges to optimization models. In this study, we propose a novel optimization model that addresses these challenges by employing a probabilistic method to model the uncertain behavior of DGs and loads. Our model utilizes the multi-objective wind-driven optimization (MOWDO) technique with fuzzy mechanism to simultaneously address economic, environmental, and comfort concerns in SPGs. Unlike existing models, our approach incorporates a hybrid demand response (HDR), combining price-based and incentive-based DR to mitigate rebound peaks and ensure stable and efficient energy usage. The model also introduces battery energy storage systems (BESS) as environmentally friendly backup sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainability. We assess the developed model across various distinct configurations: optimizing operational costs and pollution emissions independently with/without DR, optimizing both operational costs and pollution emissions concurrently with/without DR, and optimizing operational costs, user comfort, and pollution emissions simultaneously with/without DR. The experimental findings reveal that the developed model performs better than the multi-objective bird swarm optimization (MOBSO) algorithm across metrics, including operational cost, user comfort, and pollution emissions.

Features of planning and managing power flows in distribution grids of megalopolises

The study examines the root causes of disruptions of normal operation of power distribution grids in large cities and metropolitan areas. The existing principles of scheduling and maintaining power flows in power distribution grids as well as ways of ensuring the reliability of their operation are analyzed. The integration of fuel-fired distributed generation facilities and renewable generation plants into distribution networks is shown to affect the ability to ensure transient stability during emergency disturbances. We establish evaluation criteria and provide upward margin values to determine the feasibility of the planned power flows. The study reveals general patterns in the calculation of the upward margin for power distribution grids of large cities and metropolitan areas. Test power flow analysis is performed for a real-world segment of a metropolitan area power distribution grid to identify possible overloads of power grid equipment and develop and implement a list of measures for the power flow to achieve the feasible region. The developed approach makes it possible to minimize load shedding or rule out load shedding altogether, ensuring reliable power supply to consumers in large cities and metropolitan areas in the event of an unexpected load growth.

A security-aware dynamic hosting capacity approach to enhance the integration of renewable generation in distribution networks

Hosting capacity (HC) describes the electricity network’s ability to accommodate distributed generation (DG) without deteriorating electrical performance indicators. Distribution system operators typically express their networks’ HC as a single threshold, called static hosting capacity (SHC). SHC is determined via conservative regulatory criteria, increasing connection costs and time. This paper explores the potential for additional energy injection into the network via dynamic hosting capacity (DHC). A network node’s DHC is derived from the hourly operation of the network, accounting for the time variability of existing distributed generation (DG) output and demand. The methodology considers the network assets’ N-1 contingencies and their probabilities, defining the security-aware DHC (SDHC). The SDHC definition is technologically neutral. Through a case study of a radial medium voltage distribution network, the paper highlights the significant limitations of SHC due to conservative calculation criteria mandated by regulators. Annual injectable energy is increased by 62% to 76% when comparing DHC to SHC. Variations between average DHC and SDHC are below 0.01% due to low N-1 probabilities. This finding points out the potential of dynamic hosting capacity definitions, allowing more efficient use of the existing network and facilitating the integration of new DG capacity with reduced connection costs and time.

A Novel Pelican Bird Optimization Algorithm based Optimal Allocation of Combined DGs and EVCSs for Improving Voltage Stability of RDS

Objectives: The main objective of the proposed investigation is to enhance the voltage stability of Radial Distribution System (RDS). It is achieved by proper allocation between combined Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCSs) and Distributed Generators (DGs) in RDS. Here, three objective functions such as Real Power loss, Average Voltage Devotion Index (AVDI) and Voltage Stability Index (VSI) are considered. Methods: The multi-objective optimization problem is implemented using a novel and an effective Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA) to attain the best compromised solutions. POA is a nature inspired parameter less optimization tool and it is well suited for solution of complex, non-linear voltage stability problem. It determines the most excellent site and size of the EVCSs and DG units. The control parameter of POA considered are population size as 40, the number of variables as 8 and the maximum number of iterations as 100. MATLAB 14.0 platform is utilized for the projected problem. Findings: The bench mark test system of IEEE-33 node system is considered to authenticate the presentation of planned POA methodology. The outcomes such as minimized power loss and AVDI, improved voltage at each bus and VSI are presented. The percentage of loss reduction 39.30% is enhanced, when compared with the base case approach and 5.42 % more improved than the other existing methods like TLBO and HHO approaches. Similarly, the VSI 24.96 % is improved, when compared with the base case method and 1.58 % better than the other obtainable methods. Novelty: The POA is a newly urbanized and well-designed optimization algorithm. It efficiently reaches the global optimal solutions with less time duration. The comparative study with the existing algorithm of TLBO and HHO is considered to prove the performance of Projected POA approach. Keywords: Radial distribution system, Distributed Generators, Electric Vehicles, Charging Stations, Voltage stability, Network loss reduction, Pelican Optimization Algorithm

Real-time energy management simulation for enhanced integration of renewable energy resources in DC microgrids

The presented work addresses the growing need for efficient and reliable DC microgrids integrating renewable energy sources. However, for the sake of practicality, implementing complex control strategies can increase system complexity. Thus, efficient methodologies are required to provide efficient energy management of microgrids while increasing the integration of renewable energy sources. The primary contribution of this work is to investigate the issues related to operating a DC microgrid with conventional control designed to power DC motors using readily available, non-advanced control strategies with the objective of achieving stable and reliable grid performance without resorting to complex control schemes. The proposed microgrid integrates a combination of uncontrollable renewable distributed generators (DGs) alongside controllable DGs and energy storage systems, including batteries and supercapacitors, connected via DC links. The Incremental Conductance (InCond) algorithm is employed for maximum power point tracking to maximize power output from the PV system. The energy management strategy prioritizes the solar system as the primary source, with the battery and supercapacitor acting as backup power sources to ensure overall system reliability and sustainability. The effectiveness of the microgrid under various operating conditions is evaluated through extensive simulations conducted using MATLAB. These simulations explore different power generation scenarios, including normal operation with varying load levels and operation under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Moreover, fault analysis of the DC microgrid is performed to examine system reliability. The system performance is evaluated using real-time simulation software (OPAL-RT) to validate the effectiveness of the approach under real-time conditions. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the efficacy of operating a DC microgrid with conventional controllers, ensuring grid stability and reliability across various operating conditions and fault scenarios while prioritizing the use of renewable energy sources. The results illustrated that system efficiency increases with load, but fault tolerance measures, can introduce trade-offs between reliability and peak efficiency.

Optimization of methane partial oxidation for hydrogen production with local free space addition: An efficient combination of porous media reactor and thermoelectric conversion system

Thermoelectric technology plays a pivotal role in the efficient conversion and utilization of exhaust heat. Abundant waste heat resources are present in the tail gas of hydrogen production, significantly influenced by combustion characteristics. To investigate the impact of combustion performance on hydrogen yield and power output, an efficient porous media reactor was designed and integrated with a thermoelectric conversion system. The combustion characteristics of a thermoelectric system incorporating unsteady porous media were examined. Furthermore, the effects of the porous media’s structural parameters on temperature distribution, gas concentration, and power generation were analyzed under various operating conditions. The results revealed that radial free space structures exhibited higher hydrogen and methane conversion efficiencies compared to axial free space structures at verge and toroidal positions. However, the height of the radial free space exerted a more substantial influence on temperature distribution and gas production than the size of the free space itself. At a height of 39 mm, hydrogen concentration and yield reached their peak values of 14.5 % and 53 %, respectively. Combustion was found to significantly impact power generation, with a downward shift of the flame resulting in decreased power output. The inlet velocity was observed to affect the thermoelectric generator power, with a maximum steady-state power of 3.95 W achieved at a velocity of 16 cm/s. These findings provide practical guidance for the efficient utilization of industrial waste heat.

Artificial immune systems (GA-AIS) enabled power loss mitigation in distributed generation: X3PAIS optimization approaches

The distribution network is a crucial component of the power system, with industrialization driving increased energy demand. Traditional power-generating techniques, such as thermal and hydroelectric are not enough to meet this demand, leading to the development of Distributed Generation (DG). DG requires an extensive re-evaluation of the current power system, as it modifies energy losses and line flows. Inadequate integration of DG can cause power outages, disruption of protection coordination, and lead to islanding. AI can help overcome this issue by determining the best system architecture. Researchers have been interested in the Artificial Immune System (AIS) algorithm, which has room for development and lacks a fixed template. In order to improve AIS, X3PAIS, a hybridization strategy that combines clonal selection with a three-parent crossover has been developed within the scope of the study. X3PAIS was pre-tested using applications in a planetary gear train, a wastewater treatment facility, and mathematical calculations, showcasing its robustness and versatility. In the context of power distribution, X3PAIS is used in the multiple DG architecture of the power distribution system, reducing power losses by placing DG units in the best locations and sizing them to match load profiles. The four DGs' experiment results show that X3PAIS can minimize power losses by more than 89 %. To optimize power losses in the power distribution system, X3PAIS may be improved with a three-parent multiple-point crossover operation.

A hybrid optimization for distributed generation and D-STATCOM placement in radial distribution network: a multi-faceted evaluation

The deregulation of the power system, upward growth in electrical energy demand and network expansion have resulted in an increasing integration of distributed generation (DG) and distribution static synchronous compensator (D-STATCOM) into radial distribution systems (RDS). Nonetheless, the optimal allocation of these devices is highly important to derive immense benefits. This investigation narrows down on optimizing DG and D-STATCOM placement in IEEE 33-bus RDS with a view to increase bus voltages, decrease power losses as well as maximize economic gains. The study undertakes a comprehensive analysis comparing the technical, economic and environmental performance of DG and D-STATCOM; thereby enabling power engineers to make informed choices concerning which device will be most advantageous when it comes to delivering power in RDS. A fuzzy enhanced firefly optimization (FEFO) approach is proposed for the optimization and a multifaceted evaluation in terms of technical, financial and environmental is presented for effective decision-making on distributed energy resource deployment. D-STATCOM and wind DG integrations led to notable reductions in power loss and pollutant emissions, highlighting their effectiveness in improving power quality and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. While wind DG incurred a higher installation cost ($3,100,749.2) compared to D-STATCOM ($90,566.6), it achieved greater yearly power loss cost savings ($69,198 versus $47,619). FEFO’s efficiency in optimization stands out, aiding engineers in making informed decisions for optimizing D-STATCOM and wind-DG integration in the IEEE-33 RDS, ultimately enhancing system performance and cost-effectiveness through proactive planning. The integration of D-STATCOM and wind DG led to a significant improvement in distribution system efficiency, with D-STATCOM reducing real power loss by 28.7% and reactive power loss by 27.8%, while wind DG achieved greater reductions of 41.8% in real power loss and 37.5% in reactive power loss, alongside reductions in pollutant emissions of 1.5% and 2.2%, respectively.

Oppositional arithmetic optimization algorithm for network reconfiguration and simultaneous placement of DG and capacitor in radial distribution networks

AbstractThe prime objective of this study is the simultaneous network reconfiguration with distributed generation (DG) and capacitor placement in radial distribution networks (RDN) to get the techno and economic benefits for two separate objectives, which are the minimization of actual power loss and annual economic loss as well as a multi objective combining these two single objectives using an oppositional arithmetic optimization algorithm (OAOA). It is an improved version of the currently suggested arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA) used in the field of engineering for the optimization task. Though the recently developed AOA shows its efficacy in different optimization tasks but to improve the quality of solutions, convergence behavior, and to avoid the local optima, oppositional behavior is added to AOA. The efficacy and exactness of OAOA are tested on three test systems (33‐bus, 69‐bus, and 118‐bus). For the reduction of power loss and annual economic loss as well as the multi objective optimization, two scenarios with different cases are executed using OAOA in RDNs. In scenario 1, the installation of the capacitor (case 1), the installation of unity power factor (UPF) based DG (case 2), and the placement of optimal power factor (OPF) based DG (case 3) have been executed. In scenario 2, allocation of UPF based DG and capacitors simultaneously (case 1), placement of OPF based DG and capacitors simultaneously (case 2) and simultaneous reconfiguration with installation of OPF based DG and capacitor (case 3) has been executed. This recommended OAOA algorithm provides the percentage improvement in real power loss and yearly economic loss for all cases of 33‐bus, and 69‐bus systems (34.28%, 65.50%, 94.43%, 93.26%, 94.89%, and 95.11%), (28.54%, 56.69%, 83.42%, 79.62%, 83.65%, and 83.71%), and (35.51%, 69.16%, 98.10%, 97.52%, 98.22%, and 98.25%), (30.26%, 61.68%, 88.75%, 85.42%, 88.81%, and 88.98%), respectively. The results and comparative study reveal that the OAOA is better than several optimization algorithms in terms of solution quality and good results. This algorithm has a good speed of response and convergence behavior.

Integrated Optimal Energy Management of Multi-Microgrid Network Considering Energy Performance Index: Global Chance-Constrained Programming Framework

Distributed generation (DG) sources play a special role in the operation of active energy networks. The microgrid (MG) is known as a suitable substrate for the development and installation of DGs. However, the future of energy distribution networks will consist of more interconnected and complex MGs, called multi-microgrid (MMG) networks. Therefore, energy management in such an energy system is a major challenge for distribution network operators. This paper presents a new energy management method for the MMG network in the presence of battery storage, renewable sources, and demand response (DR) programs. To show the performance of each connected MG’s inefficient utilization of its available generation capacity, an index called unused power capacity (UPC) is defined, which indicates the availability and individual performance of each MG. The uncertainties associated with load and the power output of wind and solar sources are handled by employing the chance-constrained programming (CCP) optimization framework in the MMG energy management model. The proposed CCP ensures the safe operation of the system at the desired confidence level by involving various uncertainties in the problem while optimizing operating costs under Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP). The proposed energy management model is assessed on a sample network concerning DC power flow limitations. The procured power of each MG and power exchanges at the distribution network level are investigated and discussed.