Optimal Placement and Sizing of Multiple Renewable Distributed Generation Units Considering Load Variations Via Dragonfly Optimization Algorithm

Abstract

The progression towards smart grids, integrating renewable energy resources, has increased the integration of distributed generators (DGs) into power distribution networks. However, several economic and technical challenges can result from the unsuitable incorporation of DGs in existing distribution networks. Therefore, optimal placement and sizing of DGs are of paramount importance to improve the performance of distribution systems in terms of power loss reduction, voltage profile, and voltage stability enhancement. This paper proposes a methodology based on Dragonfly Optimization Algorithm (DA) for optimal allocation and sizing of DG units in distribution networks to minimize power losses considering variations of load demand profile. Load variations are represented as lower and upper bounds around base levels. Efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated on IEEE 33-bus and IEEE 69-bus radial distribution test networks. The results show the performance of this method over other existing methods in the literature.