Multi-Objective Optimal DG Sizing and Placement in Distribution Systems Using Particle Swarm Optimization

The radial structure of conventional distribution systems exposes electricity consumers to unavoidable downtimes. Downtimes spell-out outage cost to both utility providers and consumers. These downtimes can be mitigated through operation of tie-switch, vis-à-vis optimal sizing of DGs at strategic locations. This paper proposes a new approach to the problem of optimal sizing and location of DGs for optimizing benefit-cost analysis of DG installation and the total power losses during failures. The proposed approach considers the worst-case contingency scenarios of a distribution system with possible restoration via a tie-switch while meeting voltage constraints. A non-traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization is developed for the system. The forward and backward propagation power flow analysis method is used. This approach is applied to the Roy Billinton Test System. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in obtaining the optimal size and location of DG in a distribution system.