Optimal sizing and location of multiple distributed generation for power loss minimization using genetic algorithm

Abstract

This paper presents a Genetic Algorithm (GA) for optimal location and sizing of multiple distributed generation (DG) for loss minimization. The study is implemented on a 33-bus radial distribution system to optimally allocate different numbers of DGs through the minimization of total active power losses and voltage deviation at power constraints of 0 – 2 MW and 0 – 3 MW respectively. The study proposed a PQ model of DG and Direct Load Flow (DLF) technique that uses Bus Incidence to Branch current (BIBC) and Branch Current to Bus Voltage (BCBV) matrices. The result obtained a minimum base case voltage level of 0.9898 p.u at bus 18 with variations of voltage improvements at other buses after single and multiple DG allocations in the system. Besides, the total power loss before DG allocation is observed as 0.2243 MW, and total power loss after DG allocation was determined based on the power constraints. Various optimal locations were seen depending on the power limits of different DG sizes. The results have shown that the impact of optimal allocation and sizing of three DG is more advantageous concerning voltage improvement, reduction of the voltage deviation and also total power loss in the distribution system. The results obtained in the 0 – 2 MW power limit is consistent to the 0 – 3 MW power limits regarding the influence of allocating DG to the network and minimization of total power losses.