Allocation of PV Systems with Volt/Var Control Based on Automatic Voltage Regulators in Active Distribution Networks

Abstract

This paper presents an optimal allocation methodology of photovoltaic distributed generations (PVDGs) with Volt/Var control based on Automatic Voltage Regulations (AVRs) in active distribution networks considering the non-dispatchable mode of PVDG operation. In the proposed methodology, an intelligent coordinated Var control is activated via controlling the AVR tap position and the Var injection of PV inverters to achieve a compromise between reducing active and reactive power losses and enhancing voltage quality in a distribution network. Also, the scheduled power factor mode of operation is investigated for the PV inverters. Added to that, the proposed allocation methodology is handled on the basis of hourly loading variation under simultaneous control modes of PV inverters and AVR. Moreover, the impacts of the specified number of PVDGs are assessed on the distribution system’s performance. A recent effective optimizer of the slim mold algorithm (SMA) is dedicated to solving the proposed optimization framework. The simulation implementations are executed on a practical distribution network of the Kafr Rabea area related to South Delta Electricity Company in Egypt. Also, the application is conducted for a large-scale distribution network from the metropolitan area of Caracas. The proposed methodology provides superior performance in minimizing the active and reactive power losses and improving the voltage profile.