A Methodology for Low-Cost Optimization of Energy Efficient Passive Filters in Distribution Networks

In power distribution networks, nonlinear loads produce harmonic currents that can pass through other sensitive locations in the power system and eventually back to the source. Harmonic currents can produce a variety of effects that are harmful to a power system structure. Consequentially, the deployment of new cost and energy efficient passive, active and hybrid filtering techniques is important for the utilities and consumers alike. This paper presents an application of the Genetic Algorithm toolbox (GA) provided by MatLab software in order to find the optimal sizing of parameters of C-type passive filters based on minimization of the total investment cost of the proposed filters. Load power factor (PF), load voltage total harmonic distortion (THDV) and supply current total demand distortion (TDD) are considered as the main constraints in this paper. Besides, capacitor loading duties are taken into account in compliance with IEEE Standard 18-2002 guidelines. Various numerical results are presented to validate the proposed approach.