Genetic Algorithm Based Optimal Volt/Var Control of Distribution Systems with Distributed Generation

Abstract

In this paper, new voltage regulation algorithms have been proposed for Distribution System (DS) equipped
with Distributed Generation (DG). Due to the ever increasing power demand, the power system sector is
facing too many challenges to fulfill that demand and also to supply power with proper acceptable quality.
Distributed generation is one of the most efficient solutions to meet the increasing demand. When integrated
with the grid, it has its own technical as well as economical impacts. One of the critical areas of major
concern resulting from the integration of DG into the DS is the voltage/reactive power (volt/var) control.
Normally, loads are modeled as a constant power load model. But, in reality, loads are voltage dependant.
The first part of this paper proposes new voltage regulation methods in a radial distribution system with
voltage dependant loads (VDLs) along with DG. Better and accurate results can be expected by including
VDLs. The second part of the paper presents Genetic algorithm (GA) based optimal volt/var control in a DS
with DG. The GA based method has been used to find optimal set points of volt/var control equipments in the
DS with DG. The simulation results have been found to be promising. This work can be a major step towards
distribution system automation, which is one of the primary targets of power sector.
Keywords: Algorithm, distributed generation, distribution system, genetic algorithm, line rise compensation,
line drop compensation, step voltage regulator, voltage dependant loads, voltage regulation