Optimal Capacitor Placement in Distribution Network for Loss Reduction and Voltage Profile Improvement

This paper presents a method for optimal multi objective capacitor placement in the medium voltage distribution network. The purpose of the proposed algorithm is to determine the optimal sites and sizes for capacitor installation in distribution network for power loss reduction and voltage profile improvements. The search for the set of candidate solutions is performed using an evolution inspired, multi objective genetic algorithm, while the conflict among candidate solutions from Pareto front is solved using the fuzzy multi criteria decision making based on Bellman-Zadeh method. In order to demonstrate its relevance, the problem is tested on the model of a real distribution system, currently operated in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The results indicate that Distribution System Operator (DSO) can benefit from optimal capacitor placement in distribution network. The proposed algorithm was proved to have a practical relevance as it can be applied to realistic distribution system. The presented results are relevant to the DSO for planning purposes, for customers because it has potential to lower the power distribution cost and finally for regulators who are overseeing the network planning and long term management process.