Context:

With the advent of the smart grid paradigm, electrical distribution network (EDN) operators are making efforts to modernize their power grids through the optimal implementation of distributed generators (DGs) and other devices such as capacitors (CAs) and voltage regulators (VRs). The optimal allocation of such devices is a challenging task involving discrete and integer decision variables.

Method:

This paper presents an approach for the optimal placement of CAs, VRs and DGs in EDNs. The distinctive feature of the proposed model is the fact that it can be used to optimize the allocation of all of these elements together, in pairs, or separately. The optimal implementation of these elements is formulated as a mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem, and it is solved by means of a specialized genetic algorithm (SGA).

Results:

The proposed methodology was tested on the IEEE 69-bus test system. The results were compared with previous works from the specialized literature, showing the effectiveness and robustness of the model.

Conclusions:

It was found that the appropriate allocation of CAs, VRs, and DGs results in a significant power loss reduction. It was also found that the proposed model is faster than other techniques proposed in the specialized literature.

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