Optimal distributed generation allocation for reliability, losses, and voltage improvement

This paper presents a methodology for optimal distributed generation (DG) allocation and sizing in distribution systems, in order to minimize the electrical network losses and to guarantee acceptable reliability level and voltage profile. The optimization process is solved by the combination of genetic algorithms (GA) techniques with methods to evaluate DG impacts in system reliability, losses and voltage profile. The fitness evaluation function that drives the GA to the solution is the relation between the benefit obtained by the installation of DG units and the investment and operational costs incurred in their installation. The losses and voltage profile evaluation is based on a power flow method for radial networks with the representation of dispersed generators. The reliability indices are evaluated based on analytical methods modified to handle multiple generations. The results obtained with the proposed methodology for hypothetical systems found in the literature and actual distribution systems demonstrate its applicability. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.