Optimal Sizing and Placement of DG in a Radial Distribution Network Using Sensitivity Based Methods

Abstract

In recent years, the power industry has experienced significant changes on the power distribution systems primarily due to the implementation of smart-grid technology and the incremental implementation of distributed generation. Distributed Generation (DG) is simply defined as the decentralization of power plants by placing smaller generating units closer to the point of consumption, traditionally ten mega-watts or smaller. The distribution power system is generally designed for radial power flow, but with the introduction of DG, power flow becomes bidirectional. The presence of DG on the distribution system creates an array of potential problems related to safety, stability, reliability and security of the electrical system. Distributed generation on a power system affects the voltages, power flow, short circuit currents, losses and other results. Whether the impact of the DG is positive or negative on the system will depend on the location and size of the DG. Therefore this thesis focuses on testing various indices and using effective techniques for the optimal placement and sizing of the DG unit by minimizing power losses and voltage deviation. A 33-bus radial distribution system has been taken as the test system. The feasibility of the work lies on the fast execution of the programs as it would be equipped with the real time operation of the distribution system and it is seen that execution of the DG placement is quite fast and feasible with the optimization techniques used in this work.