Implementation of distributed energy resources along with Network Reconfiguration for cost-benefit analysis

Abstract

Increased demand of power in distribution networks (DN) driven by various sectors like industrial, commercial, municipal, residential, and irrigation necessitates alternative solutions such as Distributed Generators (DGs), capacitors, and Network Reconfiguration (NR). Addressing this challenge involves optimizing the opening of tie line switches and determining the optimal placement and capacity of capacitors and DGs, which poses a complex optimization problem involving both discrete and continuous variables. To tackle this, an Adaptive Quantum-inspired Evolutionary Algorithm (AQiEA), combining principles from Quantum computing and Evolutionary Algorithms, is employed. This study emphasizes holistic benefits, specifically aiming to maximize economic gains in the distribution system with the installation of DGs, capacitors, and NR along with minimization of power losses. In this paper, two cases are explored. In the first case, seven scenarios’ analyses system losses with load variations, each scenario running twenty-five independent iterations. Performance metrics has been computed to reveal that simultaneous implementation of NR, DGs, and capacitors significantly reduces power losses compared to independent implementations. The second case introduces an additional objective of maximizing economic benefits. This involves considering factors like DG and capacitor location, capacity, line losses, and various costs such as operational, maintenance, and installation costs. The results tabulated in paper demonstrate that operating DGs in parallel with capacitors and NR not only minimizes power losses but also maximizes distribution utilities' profits.