Model Development of Genetic-Based Algorithm to Solve the Capacitor Placement Problem in Primary Feeders

• Activity Number: 576
• Type: Contributed
• Date/Time: Wednesday, August 3, 2011 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
• Sponsor: Section on Physical and Engineering Sciences
• Author(s): Mohammad Abul Quasem*+ and Mohamed H. Shwehdi
• Companies: Howard University and King Fahd University
• Keywords: Capacitor Placement ; Distribution Feeders ; Power Distribution Systems ; Repeated Iterations ; Economics ; Genetic-Algorithm

Abstract

Nowadays fast growth in electricity consumption is one of the most challenging problems for the electric utilities. VOLT/VAR and losses at the distribution systems level are the key solution means for this problem. A solution to this problem can assist in offsetting the cost of energy and generating capacity expenses. Two new formulations of Capacitor Placement Problem (CPP) are proposed. The first one is based on capacitors/losses cost balance principle while the second one is based on a comprehensive cost evaluation of the network performance post CP. A genetic-based algorithm is developed and implemented to solve CPP. This algorithm is a process of repeated iterations, a continual search for the expected model of multiple load models to be compensated and then compensation is applied to it. When no compensation is needed for all load models, the iterations stop. This solution scheme is tested on experimental systems. The impact of capacitor installation on fault level and network resonance if also investigated.