Optimal power quality improvement in distribution system with UPQC using an improved strategy

A hybrid technique is proposed to enhance the power quality (PQ) on the distribution sides of the utility grid (UG) by controlling a unified power quality conditioner (UPQC) connected to hybrid sources (photovoltaic [PV] and wind turbine [WT]). The proposed hybrid method integrates the implementation of the pelican optimization algorithm and the Aquila optimizer; hence, it is called the improved aquila optimizer (IAO) technique. The objective of the proposed method is to lessen the total harmonic distortion (THD), voltage instability, and PQ issues during load fluctuation situations. The improved Aquila Optimizer technique optimizes the control parameters of the UPQC to achieve optimal PQ development. The series controller is attached to the grid‐side to enhance grid PQ, while the shunt hybrid active power filter (SAPF) and shunt active power filter (SHAPF) generate the best control pulses based on load and source conditions. The proposed solution addresses power loss, THD, and voltage instability problems during load fluctuation conditions. The series controller reduces voltage sag by 14% and voltage swell by 15%. The THD for the proposed technique is 0.8%. The PQ of the proposed technique is improved, and various characteristics are reduced. The efficiency of the proposed technique is examined by using MATLAB and is compared to existing approaches. The PQ characteristics are significantly improved, and the proposed technique is better than the existing techniques.