Multi-Objective Optimal Allocation of Hybrid Photovoltaic Distributed Generators and Distribution Static Var Compensators in Radial Distribution Systems Using Various Optimization Algorithms

Abstract

In recent years, considerable growth was about the integration of renewable energy sources in the Radial Distribution Systems (RDS), as Photovoltaic Distributed Generators (PVDG) due to their importance in achieving plenty desired technical and economic benefits. Implementation of the Distribution Static Var Compensator (DSVC) in addition to the PVDG would be one of the best choices that may provide the maximum of those benefits. Hence, it is crucial to determine the optimal allocation of the devices (PVDG and DSVC) into RDS to get satisfactory results and solutions. This paper is devoted to solve the allocation problem (locate and size) of hybrid PVDG and DSVC units into the standards test systems IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus RDSs. Solving the formulated problem of the optimal integration of hybrid PVDG and DSVC units is based on minimizing the proposed Multi-Objective Function (MOF) which is represented as the sum of the technical-economic parameters of Total Active Power Loss (TAPL), Total Reactive Power Loss (TRPL), Total Voltage Deviation (TVD), Total Operation Time (TOT) of the overcurrent relays (OCRs) installed in the RDS, the Investment Cost of PVDGs (ICPVDG) and the Investment Cost of DSVCs (ICDSVC), by applying various recent metaheuristic optimization algorithms. The simulation results reveal the superiority and the effectiveness of the Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA) in providing the minimum of MOF, including minimization of the power losses until 16.209 kW, and 12.11 kVar for the first RDS, 4.756 kW and 7.003 kVar for the second RDS, enhancing the voltage profiles and the overcurrent protection system. Moreover, the ability to reach the optimal allocation of PVDG and DSVC and maintain the voltage profiles in the allowable limit, whatever the load demand variation.