Optimal planning of distributed generation systems in distribution system: A review

This paper attempts to present the state of art of research work carried out on the optimal planning of distributed generation (DG) systems under different aspects. There are number of important issues to be considered while carrying out studies related to the planning and operational aspects of DG. The planning of the electric system with the presence of DG requires the definition of several factors, such as: the best technology to be used, the number and the capacity of the units, the best location, the type of network connection, etc. The impact of DG in system operating characteristics, such as electric losses, voltage profile, stability and reliability needs to be appropriately evaluated. For that reason, the use of an optimization method capable of indicating the best solution for a given distribution network can be very useful for the system planning engineer, when dealing with the increase of DG penetration that is happening nowadays. The selection of the best places for installation and the preferable size of the DG units in large distribution systems is a complex combinatorial optimization problem. This paper aims at providing a review of the relevant aspects related to DG and its impact that DG might have on the operation of distributed networks. This paper covers the review of basics of DG, DG definition, current status. of DG technologies, potential advantages and disadvantages, review for optimal placement of DG systems, optimizations techniques/methodologies used in optimal planning of DG in distribution systems. An attempt has been made to judge that which methodologies/techniques are suitable for optimal placement of DG systems based on the available literature and detail comparison(s) of each one. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.