Impact of integrating type-1 distributed generation on distribution network using modified genetic algorithm and voltage stability index: a technical and cost–benefit analysis approach

Abstract

The position of the distribution network and its peculiar topology calls for viable means of addressing the issue of severe power loss and voltage instability confronting its ability to truly wheel out the received energy from the transmission arm of the network to the end users. Based on this premise, the current work employed a Lévy flight genetic algorithm (LF-GA) for the placement of type-1 photovoltaic-based distributed generation (PV-DG) into a radial network. The IEEE 33 and Government Residential Area (GRA) 11 kV and 34-bus feeder in Nigeria were used to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The backward-forward sweep formed the backbone of the load flow, while the voltage stability index was used to select the suitable buses where type-1 DG was integrated for optimal performance. The criteria considered for performance evaluation were the cost of energy loss, payback time, active power loss, and network voltage profile improvement without violating the essential network constraints. The paper proposed a relevant policy framework on DG integration, which filled knowledge gap in the previous studies. A multi-objective factor-based LF-GA subjected to appropriate constraints was used to optimize both the sizing and the locations of type-1 DG with the arrangements implemented in a MATLAB environment. The results obtained when compared with the existing contributions in the literature showed a credible improvement in line-loss reduction, voltage profile, and the system voltage stability index, including reduced cost of energy loss with minimal payback time on the investment of compensating devices.