Optimal Power Quality Enhancement using a Radial Distribution System with an Improved Unified Power Quality Conditioner

Massive electric power distribution over long distances with consequential Power Quality (PQ) challenges such as voltage sags and power losses are some of the significant attributes of a Radial Distribution Network (RDN). Deployment of Power Angle Regulated (PAR) based Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC) in a distribution network is also securing attraction because of the latest recorded achievements and improvements in Voltage Source Inverter (VSI) built power electronic systems. However, optimal allocation of this kind of device to mitigate PQ problems remains a challenge for achieving set objectives. Consequently, this study considers the best possible allocation of PAR and Improved-UPQC know as I-UPQC in the distribution network to enhance power network performance. The identification of optimal location is achieved through the application of hybridization of the Genetic Algorithm and Improved Particle Swarm Optimization (GA & IPSO). The deterministic approach is based on the weight factor of various objective functions. The allocation is attained with a selection of reactive power control between inverter connected in parallel and series and control angle variables of the device through its dynamic involvement of total system loss derivatives. Performances of the I-UPQC based distribution system during diverse power transfers are observed. Convergence characteristic of deterministic approach at different disturbance percentages is analyzed and presented. Imaginary power circulation enhanced the voltage-associated challenges at the range of 0.949 to 0.9977. Hence, power dissipation minimized to 1.15 percent compared to the initial 3.35 percent, according to results of I-UPQC allocation in RDN utilizing mathematical and optimization technique. Additionally, the network losses, voltage dip, and minimum bus voltage profile all fall within the regulatory standards of less than 2%, 5%, and 5%, correspondingly. Also, the performance of the compensated network for both ordinary and optimized scenarios indicated the fitness of the projected method in accomplishing an operational optimization of RDN, specifically for voltage profile (VP) improvement and I-UPQC's series and shunt inverter share imaginary power.