Voltage-Loss Sensitivity Based Approach for Optimal DG Placement in Distribution Networks

Abstract

Integration of Distributed Generation (DG) into power networks has taken a great interest in power industry because of its wide range of merits over the conventional methods of generation. Nevertheless, several aspects need to be considered before deploying them to the network for facilitating enhanced system performance. Optimal DG placement in terms of sizing and location are crucial in minimizing the active power loss and maintaining stipulated network voltage levels. This paper presents a novel analytical method for optimal DG placement by defining a new sensitivity index referred to as Loss-Voltage Sensitivity Index (LVSI) combining traditional Voltage Sensitivity Index (VSI) and Loss Sensitivity Index (LSI). The best location for DG allocation evaluated by new index reflects the conditions for minimum power loss and voltage deviations in the network effectively as both VSI and LSI are utilized in the new formulation. The proposed method was verified using the IEEE-6 bus test system considering several operating scenarios. Results show that proposed methodology is accurate in determining the optimal sites for allocating DG units.