An improved MOPSO algorithm for optimal sizing & placement of distributed generation: A case study of the Tunisian offshore distribution network (ASHTART)

Abstract

Investigation of power distribution systems is an attractive field in the power system analysis. The location and size of Distributed Generation (DG) are important and an uncontrollable choice might result in a negative impact on the system’s behavior. This paper presents an improved approach for optimum simultaneous DG placement and sizing to reduce power loss and improve the voltage profile and the stability of distribution networks. Numerous methods have been used for solving this difficult combinatorial problem like Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm used in this work. The suggested MOPSO method combined with MATPOWER toolbox was tested on standard IEEE 33-bus and IEEE 69-bus radial distribution networks (RDN) throw different scenarios. The major contribution of this paper was that the procedure was applied to the Tunisian electricity distribution network (ASHTART) of the SEREPT (Society for Research and Exploitation of Petroleum) to prove the efficiency of applying this method on real-world systems. This paper will also compare the proposed method with previous findings methods and the obtained results testify to the robustness and effectiveness of the improved MOPSO algorithm in terms of reduction in total active power losses (TAPL), maximization of a percentage of minimum voltage improvement (%MVI), amelioration in voltage profiles and also maximization in voltage stability index (VSI) while finding the optimal location and size of the DG units (OPSDG).