Optimal coordination of static VAR compensators, fixed capacitors, and distributed energy resources in Egyptian distribution networks

• Published in: International transactions on electrical energy systems Vol. 30; no. 11
• Main Authors: Abou El‐Ela, Adel A., El‐Sehiemy, Ragab A., Shaheen, Abdullah M., Eissa, Ibrahim A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken Hindawi Limited 01.11.2020
• Subjects: Algorithms; Capacitors; Compensators; distributed energy resources; Distributed generation; Energy distribution; Energy resources; Energy sources; fixed capacitors; improved Grey Wolf algorithm; line loadability; Load fluctuation; Methodology; MV distribution networks; Nodes; Power transfer; Reactive power; static VAR compensating systems; Topology
• ISSN: 2050-7038; 2050-7038
• DOI: 10.1002/2050-7038.12609

This article suggests a bi‐stage methodology for optimal allocation of static VAR compensating (SVC) systems in integration with fixed capacitors (FCs) and distributed energy resources (DERs). The proposed methodology is based on an improved Grey Wolf algorithm (IGWA). Multifarious objectives are comprised to minimize the investment costs of the new devices installation, the costs of the power generation from the grid, the active power losses, the system voltage deviations, and to enhance the power transfer capability through minimizing the load balancing index. These disparate objectives are incorporated together and handled based on IGWA by merging simultaneously various daily loadings through light, intermediate and nominal load levels. The proposed methodology is applied on two various topologies of real‐world grids belong to the Egyptian electrical unified network. The simulation results demonstrate noticeable technical and economical features with eminent capabilities of the utilized algorithm. The compensation of the reactive power via SVCs based on the proposed methodology leads to significant improvement in the whole quality of the nodes voltage with the load variations. In light loading conditions, the SVCs regulate their output, in an optimal way, in according to the reactive power requirements in the neighboring nodes and they help in relieving the negative impacts of nodes overvoltage due to the DERs and FCs that may be existed. Various objectives are merged using weighted sum approach based on AHP where IGWA is introduced for optimal allocations of FCs, and DERs and coordinated with SVCs. Different daily loading conditions are jointly discussed in each simulation scenario through light, intermediate and nominal loading conditions. The proposed methodology on two real‐world systems associated with the Egyptian unified network are applied.