Impact Analysis of Location and Sizing of Distributed Generation on the Reliability of a Distribution System /

Abstract

With the growing utilization of Distributed Generation (DG) sources in distribution systems, the planning, operation, and control of these systems have become increasingly intricate and demanding. The successful integration of DG at the distribution level necessitates careful examination of various factors, including DG type, location, size, and the number of units, as these elements directly influence the performance of the Distribution System (DS). This paper aims to identify the optimal location, sizing, and number of DG units to minimize active power losses and improve DS reliability, while considering operational constraints. To achieve this objective, multiple tests are conducted, and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique is implemented. A modified IEEE-13 bus unbalanced radial DS is chosen as the test system, and the effects of Photovoltaic (PV) and wind DG units are evaluated under different scenarios and increasing penetration levels. The simulation studies are performed using the ETAP software, while the PSO algorithm is implemented in MATLAB. By leveraging the capabilities of ETAP, the performance of the DG system is thoroughly assessed, providing valuable insights into its effectiveness in reducing power losses and enhancing system reliability. Additionally, the implementation of the PSO algorithm in MATLAB ensures accurate optimization and enables the identification of the optimal location and size of DG units. The study results demonstrate that considering the optimal location and size of a single PV or wind DG unit can significantly reduce power losses, enhance the reliability and operational constraints of the DS system, and enable effective load sharing with the substation. Furthermore, the impact of DG unit uncertainty on system performance is also analyzed.