Optimal placement of distributed generation to minimize power loss and improve voltage stability

Abstract

Voltage instability is a major problem facing power utility companies due to a lack of maintenance and financial support to maintain the existing power system networks (PSN). Lack of maintenance occurs when PS fails to replace the aging equipment and services and upgrades existing networks. Also, the lack of financial support occurs when there is insufficient financial capital to carry out the above maintenance activities, which has incurred greater power loss in the systems. There is a need to eliminate the loss incurred in the system to avoid voltage collapse. The best way to increase the lifespan of a PSN and improve voltage stability is the optimum allocation of distributed generation (DG). The most common DG are solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbines. This review discusses the economic, environmental, and technical benefits of non-traditional DG technologies over a traditional system. However, this work reviewed different DG technologies that can be incorporated into PSN for better loss reduction. Detailed descriptions of energy loss, power loss, and multi-objectives for optimal DG planning were also discussed, along with comprehensive methods used in the sizing and placement of DG for voltage profile improvement (VPI). The findings recommend that the hybrid meta-heuristic algorithm be used for DG placement has it significantly improves voltage profile and lowers power loss. The present study concluded that with proper DG placement, the advantage of DG can be maximally accomplished, the voltage profile is improved, and losses are minimized.