article · International Transactions on Electrical Energy Systems
A bi-stage methodology uses an improved Grey Wolf algorithm to optimise the allocation of static VAR compensators alongside fixed capacitors and distributed energy resources. The approach simultaneously targets multiple technical and economic objectives across light, intermediate, and nominal daily load levels. These objectives include minimising device installation investments, grid generation costs, active power losses, and voltage deviations, while improving power transfer capability through a reduced load balancing index. Evaluated on two real-world distribution grid topologies from the Egyptian unified network, the method demonstrates substantial improvements in voltage quality across nodes amidst shifting demand. In light loading conditions, the allocated compensators adjust their output according to the reactive power requirements of neighbouring nodes, successfully mitigating overvoltages introduced by distributed energy resources and fixed capacitors.
Integrating decentralised energy resources into existing distribution grids can create network instability and overvoltage issues when electricity demand fluctuates. Finding the optimal placement and operation for voltage control equipment ensures that networks operate efficiently without excessive power losses. This approach helps electrical utilities maintain stable node voltages and reliable power delivery while controlling the capital expenditure needed for grid modernisations.
The method is designed for distribution system operators and electrical utility planners seeking to integrate distributed energy resources cost-effectively. By optimising the placement of static VAR compensators and fixed capacitors, the framework provides decision-support tools for capital planning and grid management. Evaluated through simulations on real-world Egyptian grid topologies, the approach is at an applied research stage and would require integration into utility grid planning software to reach operational use.
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This article suggests a bi-stage methodology for optimal allocation of static VAR compensating (SVC) systems in integration with fixed capacitors (FCs) and distributed energy resources (DERs). The proposed methodology is based on an improved Grey Wolf algorithm (IGWA). Multifarious objectives are comprised to minimize the investment costs of the new devices installation, the costs of the power generation from the grid, the active power losses, the system voltage deviations, and to enhance the power transfer capability through minimizing the load balancing index. These disparate objectives are incorporated together and handled based on IGWA by merging simultaneously various daily loadings through light, intermediate and nominal load levels. The proposed methodology is applied on two various topologies of real-world grids belong to the Egyptian electrical unified network. The simulation results demonstrate noticeable technical and economical features with eminent capabilities of the utilized algorithm. The compensation of the reactive power via SVCs based on the proposed methodology leads to significant improvement in the whole quality of the nodes voltage with the load variations. In light loading conditions, the SVCs regulate their output, in an optimal way, in according to the reactive power requirements in the neighboring nodes and they help in relieving the negative impacts of nodes overvoltage due to the DERs and FCs that may be existed.
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DOI: 10.1002/2050-7038.12609
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