Optimal Sizing and Techno-Economic Analysis of Battery Energy Storage System for Peak Shaving and Voltage Profile Improvement on a Rural Distribution Network

Abstract

Distribution networks are increasingly strained by peak load demands and voltage regulation problems. This paper benchmarks Particle Swarm Optimization, Boda-Boda Optimization, and Adaptive Boda-Boda Optimization Algorithm with Fuzzy Logic (ABBOA-Fuzzy) to size and site Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) as a Non-Wires Alternative for rural 11kV feeder support. Baseline analysis of the feeder indicated a peak load of 99.6%, and a voltage drop to 0.936 p.u. The optimization process demonstrated the superiority of the ABBOA-Fuzzy algorithm, which converged faster. The optimized solution guided the selection of a commercially available 400kW/1200kWh BESS which reduced peak demand by 15.5% and raised the minimum voltage to 0.952 p.u. A 15-year techno-economic analysis using the System Advisor Model, accounting for battery degradation confirmed the economic viability with a Net Present Value of $43,643 and an Internal Rate of Return of 15.54%. The study recommends this framework for utility BESS planning.