Optimal Placement of Distributed Generation and Capacitor in Distribution Networks by Ant Colony Algorithm

In this paper optimum size and location of capacitors and distributed generations (DGs) are determined simultaneously in a radial distribution network. The objective function includes power losses reduction and voltage profile improvement using ant colony algorithm. Allocation capacitors and of DGs should be carefully determined with the consideration of different planning incentives. It shows the importance of installing the exact amount of capacitors and of DGs in the best suitable location. Studies also show that if the capacitors and of DGs are connected at non-optimal locations or have non-optimal sizes, the system losses will increase. The proposed method is tested for IEEE 33-bus system, by connecting suitable size of DG, capacitor, and DG and capacitor simultaneously at the optimal location of the system. The results show a considerable reduction in the total power loss in the system and improved voltage profiles of all the buses.