Power Loss Minimization Research Articles

Multi-Objective Coordinated Control of Smart Inverters and Legacy Devices

This work proposes multi-objective two-stage distribution optimal power flow (D-OPF) to coordinate the use of smart inverters (SIs) and existing voltage control legacy devices. The first stage of multi-objective D-OPF aims to solve a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation that minimizes both voltage variation and active power loss, with SI modes, SI settings, voltage regulator (VR) taps, and capacitor bank (CB) status as control variables. The Pareto Optimal Solutions obtained from the first-stage MINLP are used to determine the optimal active–reactive power dispatch from the SIs by solving a nonlinear programming formulation in the second stage of the proposed D-OPF. This model guarantees that the setpoints for active–reactive power align with the droop characteristics of the SIs, ensuring practicability and the autonomous dispatch of active–reactive power by the SIs according to IEEE 1547-2018. The effectiveness of the proposed method is tested on the IEEE 123 distribution network by contrasting the two proposed D-OPF models, with one prioritizing SIs for voltage control and power loss minimization and the other not prioritizing SIs. The simulation results demonstrate that prioritizing SIs with optimal mode and droop settings can improve voltage control and power loss minimization. The proposed model (with SI prioritization) also reduces the usage of traditional grid control devices and optimizes the dispatch of active–reactive power. The POS also shows that the SI modes, droops, and legacy device settings can be effectively obtained based on the desired objective priority.

Determination of optimal island regions with simultaneous DG allocation and reconfiguration in power distribution networks

AbstractThe rising demand for electric energy and environmental pollution concerns have led to using renewable energy‐based distributed generators (DGs) in power distribution networks (PDN). However, the power flow may become bidirectional (non‐radial) by introducing the DGs into the system, which may cause instability in the system's operation. System instability causes an increase in system losses and implies a rising in costs. This paper proposes a methodology using Moth Flame Optimizer and Equilibrium Optimizer to reconfigure the PDN, optimizing the siting, sizing, and power factor of multiple DGs to maintain radial mode operation. Determining DGs' allocation within a radial system by optimizing multi‐parameters simultaneously leads to minimizing losses, enhancing reliability, and improving the stability of the network. Thus, the number of affected customers in a catastrophic power outage or emergency blackout scenarios can be minimized. The method has been tested on a 33‐bus distribution system where four different scenarios with three cases for each are studied to show the performance of the proposed method. The method's effectiveness is demonstrated by minimizing power loss, enhancing the voltage stability index, assuring reliability, and improving the voltage profile. Moreover, the accuracy of reliability index calculation results is confirmed with the commercial software ETAP.

Optimal Placement and Sizing of Modular Series Static Synchronous Compensators (M-SSSCs) for Enhanced Transmission Line Loadability, Loss Reduction, and Stability Improvement

This paper addresses the optimal placement and sizing of Modular Static Synchronous Series Compensators (M-SSSCs) to enhance power system performance. The proposed methodology optimizes four key objectives: reducing transmission line loadability, minimizing power losses, mitigating voltage deviations, and enhancing voltage stability using the L-index. The methodology is validated on two systems: the IEEE 14-bus test network and a sub-area of the Colombian power grid, characterized by aging infrastructure and operational challenges. The optimization process employs three metaheuristic algorithms—Genetic Algorithm (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Teaching–Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO)—to identify optimal configurations. System performance is analyzed under both normal operating conditions and contingency scenarios (N − 1). The results demonstrate that M-SSSC deployment significantly reduces congestion, enhances voltage stability, and improves overall system efficiency. Furthermore, this work highlights the practical application of M-SSSC in modernizing real-world grids, aligning with sustainable energy transition goals. This study identifies the optimal M-SSSC configurations and placement alternatives for the analyzed systems. Specifically, for the Colombian sub-area, the most suitable solutions involve installing M-SSSC devices in capacitive mode on the Termocol–Guajira and Santa Marta–Guajira 220 kV transmission lines.

МЕТОДОЛОГИЧЕСКИЕ ОСНОВЫ МАТЕРИАЛОВЕДЧЕСКОЙ ОЦЕНКИ КАЧЕСТВА СМАЗОЧНЫХ СРЕД ДЛЯ НАГРУЖЕННЫХ СОПРЯЖЕНИЙ МАШИН И МЕХАНИЗМОВ. Сообщение 2. Влияние состава смазочных сред на структурно-фазовое состояние зоны деформации металлических трибосопряжений и их антифрикционные свойства

The results of experimental studies of deformation and diffusion in the surface layers of metallic frictional couples, which form the experimental and theoretical basis of the materials science approach to the quality evaluation of lubricants, are presented. The concepts of the component’s role for the lubricating medium in the implementation of the plasticizing and strengthening triboeffect are formulated. Structural condition characteristics for the surface layers of copper alloys during friction on steel in the mode of boundary lubrication in surface-active lubricants, are described. The conditions for achieving minimum power losses of such tribosystems for friction and wear have been found. The greatest service life of tribounit in a lubricating medium containing surfactants is resulted from wear resistance increase of a copper alloy with a relative decrease in hardness and increased plasticity of its surface layer. At the same time, a decrease in hardness due to the plasticizing effect of surfactants occurs only in the near-surface deformed layer of tribomaterial, while in its deeper layers with no plasticization resulted from a lubricating medium effect, the mechanical characteristics of the antifriction alloy remain at the required high level. It is demonstrated that alloys with a single-phase structure of an α-solid solution and a wide concentration range of solubility of the alloying element in the solid state meet these requirements. It is found that such boundary conditions are provided by the presence of stationary macroscopic diffusion flows of alloying elements in the zone of contact deformation of a polycomponent tribomaterial. The role of local diffusion phenomena in quasispinodal phase transitions is indicated. Examples of the selective transfer phenomenon during friction in industrial lubricants, are given.

A Parallel Framework for Fast Charge/Discharge Scheduling of Battery Storage Systems in Microgrids

Fast charge/discharge scheduling of battery storage systems is essential in microgrids to effectively balance variable renewable energy sources, meet fluctuating demand, and maintain grid stability. To achieve this, parallel processing is employed, allowing batteries to respond instantly to dynamic conditions. By managing the complexity, high data volume, and rapid decision-making requirements in real time, parallel processing ensures that the microgrid operates with stability, efficiency, and safety. With the application of deep reinforcement learning (DRL) in scheduling algorithm design, the demand for computational power has further increased significantly. To address this challenge, we propose a Ray-based parallel framework to accelerate the development of fast charge/discharge scheduling for battery storage systems in microgrids. We demonstrate how to implement a real-world scheduling problem in the framework. We focused on minimizing power losses and reducing the ramping rate of net loads by leveraging the Asynchronous Advantage Actor Critic (A3C) algorithms and the features of the Ray cluster for real-time decision making. Multiple instances of OpenDSS were executed concurrently, with each instance simulating a distinct environment and efficiently processing input data. Additionally, Numba CUDA was utilized to facilitate GPU acceleration of shared memory, significantly enhancing the performance of the computationally intensive reward function in A3C. The proposed framework enhanced scheduling performance, enabling efficient energy management in complex, dynamic microgrid environments.

Efficient distribution network based on photovoltaic fed electric vehicle charging station using WSO-RBFNN approach

An integral and prevalent aspect of modern life is the electric vehicle (EV).EV charging networks struggle with power losses and high energy costs, particularly as demand rises leading to inefficiencies and potential system overloads. A hybrid WSO-RBFNN approach is proposed for the distribution network's photovoltaic (PV) fed electric vehicle charging stations. The performance of the proposed hybrid strategy is a combination of war strategy optimization (WSO) and Radial basis function neural network (RBFNN). It is hence referred to as the WSO-RBFNN technique. WSO optimizes the distribution network by minimizing power loss, improving voltage sensitivity, and reducing costs. Meanwhile, the RBFNN predicts the load demand. This innovative technique WSO-RBFNN identifies the nearest charging spots that minimize power loss and RBFNN optimizes power flow predicts charging demands and addresses both environmental and electrical grid stability concerns. The proposed technique is implemented in MATLAB. MATLAB is powerful computational software widely used in different fields like numerical computation, visualization, and algorithm development. MATLAB provides powerful tools for data visualization and plotting. The results are compared to various existing Heap-based optimizer (HBO), Wild horse optimizer (WHO), and Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA) techniques. The proposed approach contributes only 0.59 % of a power loss it is less and the cost of energy is 0.18$ which is lesser and the voltage deviation is 6.6 pu which is less than the existing techniques.

Impacts of electric vehicle charging stations and DGs on RDS for improving voltage stability using honey badger algorithm

The intelligent computational technique used in this research handles the multi-objective voltage stability optimization (MOVSO) problem in radial distribution systems (RDS). The objectives of the proposed research are to minimize network loss, lower the average voltage deviation index (AVDI), and improve the voltage stability index (VSI) of RDS by taking into account the recently created distributed generators (DGs) and electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs). To address the MOVSO problem, a novel and innovative honey badger algorithm (HBA) optimization technique is put forth. The two stages of HBA, known as the "digging" and "honey" phases, are responsible for effectively identifying the ideal position and appropriate quantity of EVCSs and DGs. The standard IEEE 33 node test system with different case studies is considered to validate the performance of HBA. The simulation results of improved voltage profile, minimized power loss, AVDI and improved VSI are tabulated. The proposed HBA fine-tunes the ideal position and size of the EVCSs to significantly enhance RDS performance under higher loading circumstances. To demonstrate the efficacy and originality of the suggested HBA, the numerical results are contrasted with those of earlier soft computing techniques.

Application of monarch butterfly optimization algorithm for solving optimal power flow

This paper proposes a highly flexible, robust, and efficient constraint-handling approach for the solution of the optimal power flow (OPF) problem and this solution lies in the ability to solve the power system problem and avoid the mathematical traps. Centralized control of the power system has become inevitable, in the interest of secure, reliable, and economic operation of the system. In this work, OPF is solved by considering the three distinct objectives, generation cost minimization, power loss minimization, and enhancement of voltage stability index. These three objectives are solved separately by considering the evolutionary-based monarch butterfly optimization (MBO) algorithm. This MBO algorithm is validated on the IEEE 30 bus network and the obtained results are compared with differential evolution, particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm, and Jaya algorithm. The obtained results reveal that among the various optimization algorithms considered in this work, the MBO evolves as the best algorithm for all three case studies.

Simplified circuit model of novel bypass diode based PV array for circulating current and power loss minimization under partial shading

Purpose This study aims to propose a new connection technique of bypass diode (BD) in photovoltaic (PV) array, which reduces the circulating current (CC) within PV modules as well as conduction loss in partial shaded condition (PSC). Design/methodology/approach Linearized circuit model of PV panel is proposed for calculating the CC and power loss of novel BD arrangements in PV array. From the analysis the best BD arrangement is applied in series parallel, TCT and honeycomb (HC) PV array structure for simulation and hardware verification. The hardware verification is performed in a 3 × 3 PV array, where individual panel capacity is 200 W. Findings The proposed BD arrangement reduces the power loss due to CC under PSC by almost 3% compared to conventional BD structure in a PV array. Originality/value The proposed BD arrangement is simple and useful in large PV power plants to reduce the CC-based extra power loss under PSC.

A multi-objective improved horse herd optimizer based on convex lens imaging for stochastic optimization of wind energy resources in distribution networks considering reliability and uncertainty

In this study, stochastic multi-objective allocation of wind turbines (WTs) in radial distribution networks is performed using a new multi-objective improved horse herd optimizer (MOIHHO) and an unscented transformation (UT) method for modeling the uncertainties of WTs power and network load. The objective function aims to minimize power loss, improve reliability, and reduce the costs associated with wind turbines (WTs), presenting these goals as a three-dimensional function. The Multi-Objective Improved Horse Herd Optimizer (MOIHHO) is derived from an enhanced version of the traditional horse herd optimizer. This enhancement utilizes mirror imaging based on convex lens principles to address issues of premature convergence. Additionally, the decision-making process is designed to identify the final fuzzy solution among the non-dominant solutions within the Pareto front set. The simulation results are presented with and without considering uncertainty in two scenarios of deterministic and stochastic WT allocation on 33- and 69-bus distribution networks and different objectives are compared. Also, the effect of incorporating uncertainties are evaluated on power loss and reliability using the MOIHHO. Moreover, the superiority of the MOIHHO is investigated in achieving better objective function value compared with conventional MOHHO, multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOSPO), multi-objective gray wolf optimizer (MOGWO), and multi-objective gazelle optimization algorithm (MOGOA). The obtained results demonstrated that considering the UT-based stochastic scenario, the power losses cost is increased, and the reliability is weakened for 33- and 69-bus networks in comparison with the deterministic scenario.

Multi-Objective Optimization for Distributed Generator and Shunt Capacitor Placement Considering Voltage-Dependent Nonlinear Load Models

This paper aims to optimize the placement and sizing of distributed generator (DG) and shunt capacitor (SC) to minimize various single and multi-objective problems. Initially, three single objectives are addressed: minimizing active power loss, minimizing total operating cost, and minimizing total voltage deviation. A new mathematical expression for total operating cost, based on installation, maintenance, and operation costs of DG and SC, is developed. The Competitive Swarm Optimizer (CSO) algorithm is utilized to solve the optimization problem. The results obtained using CSO are compared with several other algorithms, including Cuckoo Search, Jaya, Teaching Learning Based Optimization, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Genetic Algorithm. The comparative results demonstrate that the CSO algorithm outperforms these methodologies. Subsequently, three multi-objective problems are formulated: simultaneous minimization of active power loss and total voltage deviation, simultaneous minimization of active power loss and total operating cost, simultaneous minimization of active power loss, total voltage deviation, and total operating cost. Multi-objective CSO is used to obtain a set of non-dominated optimal solutions, providing more realistic results. The R-method is then applied to select the best compromise solution from these non-dominated solutions. The developed model demonstrates its ability to find optimal placements of DG and SC, offering superior results compared to existing approaches. The proposed methodology is validated on six different non-linear loads such as constant power, constant current, constant impedance, industrial, commercial, and residential loads, highlighting its effectiveness and tested on the IEEE-34 bus radial distribution system.

Optimal sizing and placement of STATCOM, TCSC and UPFC using a novel hybrid genetic algorithm-improved particle swarm optimization

The increase in global power demand has caused most of today's power networks to become overloaded especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. The increased load demand can be met through expansion of existing generation and transmission system. However, construction of new power infrastructure is limited by financing and technical constraints. Thus, power networks have been left to operate at overload conditions with high power losses and many power quality (PQ) problems. Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices can improve the power transfer capability of the existing transmission networks without the need of constructing new power infrastructure. In this paper, a multi-objective function comprising of minimization of power loss (PL), voltage deviation (VD) and operational cost (OC) was formulated and solved using a novel algorithm. A novel Genetic Algorithm-Improved Particle Swarm Optimization (GA-IPSO) technique is proposed in this paper for optimization of size and location of FACTS devices. Static Synchronous Compensator (STATCOM), Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC) and Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) are the three FACTS devices considered. The proposed technique was validated using IEEE-33 Bus Test System, which is a popular benchmark Radial Distribution System (RDS). The three FACTS devices were optimized separately and also in a combined manner. Under the separate optimization, the size and location of individual FACTS devices were optimized. For combined optimization, the sizes and locations of more than one device were optimized in the same test system. For separate optimization, UPFC produced the best results by reducing the active power losses by 38.44 % and OC from $1.59×105 to $ 1.15×105. Under the combined optimization, combination of TCSC, STATCOM and UPFC gave better results by achieving active power loss reduction of 56.09 % and reducing OC from $1.59×105 to $ 1.03×105. Comparison of GA-IPSO technique with other algorithms such as Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Improved Grey Wolf Optimization (IGWO) and Differential Evolution Algorithm (DEA) showed that the proposed hybrid technique was superior and more efficient in solving the FACTS optimization problem.

Optimal Sizing and Placement of Distributed Generators and Capacitors in Nepal's Sankhu Feeder Using the Water Cycle Algorithm

Minimizing power loss and improving voltage stability are crucial aspects of power systems, driven by transmission line contingencies, financial losses for utilities, and potential power system blackouts. Optimal allocation comprising the sizing and operating power factor—of Distributed Generation (DG) units and capacitor banks (CBs) significantly enhances power system efficiency. Efforts by power system operators and researchers focus on addressing issues related to power loss, energy loss, voltage profiles, and voltage stability through the strategic placement of DGs and CBs. Additionally, optimal DG and CB allocation protects the distribution system from unforeseen events and enables operators to run the system in islanding mode when necessary. The integration of DG units and CBs in distribution systems aims to enhance overall system performance. This research paper introduces a Water Cycle Algorithm (WCA) for the optimal placement and sizing of DGs and CBs. The proposed method targets both technical and economic benefits, considering multiple objective functions: minimizing power losses, reducing voltage deviation, lowering total electrical energy costs, and improving the voltage stability index. The WCA emulates the natural water cycle, from streams to rivers and rivers to the sea. Five different operational scenarios are evaluated to test the performance of this methodology. Simulations are conducted on distribution systems: the IEEE 69-bus test system and the Sankhu feeder network, a real system. The results demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed WCA compared to other optimization algorithms. The findings highlight the WCA's flexibility, efficiency, and significant improvements in economic benefits, establishing it as a promising approach for optimizing the placement of DG and CB in distribution systems.

Fault Prediction and Reconfiguration Optimization in Smart Grids: AI-Driven Approach

Smart grids (SGs) are essential for the efficient and distributed management of electrical distribution networks. A key task in SG management is fault detection and subsequently, network reconfiguration to minimize power losses and balance loads. This process should minimize power losses while optimizing distribution by balancing loads across the grid. However, the current literature yields a lack of methods for efficient fault prediction and fast reconfiguration. To achieve this goal, this paper builds on DEN2DE, an adaptable routing and reconfiguration solution potentially applicable to SGs, and investigates its potential extension with AI-based fault prediction using real-world datasets and randomly generated topologies based on the IEEE 123 Node Test Feeder. The study applies models based on Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) techniques, specifically evaluating Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) as ML methods, and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) as a DL method, evaluating each for accuracy, precision, and recall. Results indicate that the RF model with Recursive Feature Elimination (RFECV) achieves 94.28% precision and 81.05% recall, surpassing SVM (precision 89.32%, recall 6.95%) and ANN (precision 72.17%, recall 13.49%) in fault detection accuracy and reliability.

Optimum solution of power flow problem based on search and rescue algorithm

In order to solve the optimal power flow (OPF) problem, a unique algorithm based on a search and rescue method is applied in this study. For the OPF problem under three objective functions, the SAR offers a straightforward and reliable solution. The three objective functions are used to minimize the fuel cost, power loss and voltage deviation as a single objective function. The OPF problem for benchmark test system, including the IEEE-14 bus, IEEE-30 bus, and IEEE-57 bus, are solved by the Search and Rescue algorithm (SAR) under specific objective functions that are determined by the operational and economic performance indices of the power system. To demonstrate the efficacy and possibilities of the SAR algorithm, SAR is contrasted with alternative optimization techniques such as harmony search algorithm, gradient method, adaptive genetic algorithm, biogeography-based optimization, Artificial bee colony, gravitational search algorithm, particle swarm optimization, Jaya algorithm, enhanced genetic algorithm, modified shuffle frog leaping algorithm, practical swarm optimizer, Moth flam optimizer, whale and moth flam optimizer, grey wolf optimizer, cheap optimization algorithm and differential evolution algorithm. The value of minimum power losses based on SAR technique is equal to 0.459733441487247 MW for IEEE-14 bus. The value of minimum total fuel cost based on SAR technique is equal to 8051.12225602148 $/h for IEEE-14 bus. The value of minimum voltage deviation based on SAR technique is equal to 0.0357680148269292 for IEEE-14 bus. The value of minimum power losses based on SAR technique is equal to 2.71286428848434 MW for IEEE-30 bus. The value of minimum total fuel cost based on SAR technique is equal to 798.197578585806 $/h for IEEE-30 bus. The value of minimum voltage deviation based on SAR technique is equal to 0.0978069572088536 for IEEE-30 bus. The value of minimum total fuel cost based on SAR technique is equal to 38017.7691758245 $/h for IEEE-57 bus. The acquired results for the OPF compared to all competitor algorithms in every case of fitness function demonstrate the superiority of the SAR method.

Research on photovoltaic MPPT under complex conditions based on an advanced great wall construction algorithm method

To mitigate the challenges posed by the non-linear multi-peak power-voltage output characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) systems operating under partial shading conditions, which often lead to suboptimal performance of conventional Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms, a novel approach was introduced. We introduce the LGWGCA-P&O method, which synergistically combines an modified Great Wall Construction Algorithm (LGWGCA) with the Perturbation and Observation (P&O) technique. The LGWGCA is refined with a positional update mechanism inspired by the Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) algorithm, optimizing the distribution of solution agents, while a Levy flight strategy is employed to reduce excessive randomness during agent replacement and recombination, thereby accelerating the tracking process. As the algorithm approaches the maximum power point, it seamlessly transitions to the P&O method, leveraging its rapid convergence to ensure precise and efficient power point identification. Experimental results demonstrate that the LGWGCA-P&O method achieves a PV conversion efficiency exceeding 99.96%, significantly minimizing power losses during MPPT. Furthermore, the method enhances convergence speed by approximately 40% compared to traditional GWO-P&O approaches, and it consistently outperforms Particle Swarm Optimization and Cuckoo Search Optimization algorithms under extreme conditions, demonstrating superior computational efficiency and robustness.

Optimal Placement of TCSC and DPFC on Nigeria Power Transmission Network for Capacity Enhancement

The increasing demand for electrical energy and the high costs and challenges associated with building new transmission lines highlight the need to optimize existing power transmission networks. This study focuses on optimizing or enhancing Nigeria's 28-bus power transmission system using Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices, specifically, Dynamic Power Flow Controller (DPFC) and Thyristor-Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC). This research employed the Bacterial Foraging Optimization Algorithm (BFOA) in MATLAB to determine the optimal placement and sizing of DPFC and TCSC to minimize power losses, voltage deviations, and installation costs. Simulation results were compared, before and after incorporating the FACTS devices. In the base case, 32% of the buses had voltage profiles outside the acceptable range (0.95 to 1.05 p.u.), with real power loss of 602.91 kW and reactive power loss of 4559.69 kVAR. After optimally placing two DPFC and two TCSC devices in the system, all bus voltages were regulated to fall between 0.95 and 1.06 p.u., while real and reactive power losses were reduced by approximately 84.6% and 84.7%, respectively. This demonstrates a significant improvement in the efficiency and capacity of the power transmission network.

Optimizing grid-dependent and islanded network operations through synergic active-reactive power integration

DG integration improves distribution network performance and also enables microgrid (MG) formation for islanded operation. However, existing studies assume an isolated operation approach for islanded mode, which is unrealistic and increases overall system costs while adding complexity to the grid. This paper presents a dual-stage methodology for the efficient operation of distributed generation (DG) and shunt capacitor banks (SCBs) in radial distribution networks (RDNs) for both grid-integrated and islanded modes. The first stage proposes an improved Jaya algorithm (IJaya) to optimize DG and SCB allocation during grid-connected operation, aiming to reduce power loss and improve voltage profiles. IJaya employs a dynamic weight-based grid search to address premature convergence. The second stage formulates a multiobjective function for the islanded operation to minimize power loss and underutilization of DG-SCB capacity. Case studies on IEEE 33- and 69-bus RDNs show IJaya reduces power loss by 38.84 % and improves voltage by 3.26 % in grid-connected networks compared to existing methods. The proposed analytical approach for islanded operation tunes the source power factor, reducing DG-SCB underutilization by up to 15.83 % for power factors between 0.8 and 0.93. The results demonstrate that operating distributed resources near optimal capacities meets a larger portion of the island network's energy needs.

Voltage enhancement and loss minimization in a radial network through optimal capacitor sizing and placement based on Crow Search Algorithm

In power systems, the distribution network is crucial as it serves as the final stage in delivering energy from generation plants to end users. However, reactive power demand from consumers can create challenges such as low power factor, voltage drops, and increased power losses depending on the distribution system used. This study aims to enhance the performance of radial distribution networks (RDNs) by optimizing capacitor placement and sizing based on the Crow Search Algorithm (CSA). Additionally, the study addresses the Optimal Power Flow (OPF) within the network by employing the Backward/Forward Sweep (BFS) method. The study accesses CSA’s effectiveness compared to other metaheuristic optimization techniques through simulation. The simulation results showed that the Voltage Stability Index improved from 0.61 for base case to 0.68 pu with CSA, compared to 0.66 for Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), Genetic Algorithm (GA), and Teacher Learner Based Optimization (TLBO and 0.67 for Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO). CSA also achieved a 30.41 % reduction in active power losses, outperforming PSO, ABC, GA, and TLBO having 26.61 %, and IWO at 24.92 %. Additionally, application of CSA led to a 29.33 % reduction in reactive power losses, compared to 21.91 % for PSO, ABC, GA, and TLBO, 18.2 % for IWO. In the simulated IEEE 33 bus Radial Distribution Network (RDN) topology, the lowest bus voltage at bus 18 increased from 0.8820 in the base case to 0.9080 with CSA, indicating a 32.9 % improvement in voltage deviation. Furthermore, the optimization resulted in a significant reduction of 3.841 pu in capacitor cost, demonstrating CSA’s efficiency in both technical and economic aspects. CSA not only showed favorable results in minimizing power losses and improving voltage profiles but also provided substantial cost savings in capacitor implementation, making it a robust and cost-effective solution for enhancing RDN performance.

Studies on effective solar photovoltaic integration in distribution network with a blend of Monte Carlo simulation and artificial hummingbird algorithm

AbstractIn this paper, the two level stochastic optimisation approach has been suggested. In the lower level, the probability distribution functions (pdfs) for bus voltages and branch currents have been determined using the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) to be employed in chance‐constrained probabilistic optimisation by taking into account solar radiation and power consumption uncertainties in the distribution networks (DNs). In the upper level, artificial hummingbird algorithm (AHA) handles the expected power loss minimisation subjected to chance constraints, which are related to bus voltages and branch currents, by optimising photovoltaic (PV) system capacities. This research examines the effect of uncertainties in PV system performing under diverse solar radiation and varying PV penetration level scenarios on expected power losses with stochastic DN limits. The stochastic optimisation approach has been compared with the deterministic method for observing the efficiency with optimal power usage. This research improves the knowledge base for optimal PV installation in DN by combining AHA with MCS and emphasising chance‐constrained methods. To indicate the efficacy of proposed strategy, the optimisation outcomes are tested utilising MCS under various uncertainty circumstances and DN parameters are assessed in terms of probabilities of exceeding limitations. The results are compared with the application of firefly algorithm (FA) using stochastic assessment and simulations. The simulation results show that the AHA technique outperforms the FA method in terms of effectively minimising power losses with less simulation time.