Optimal Size and Location of Capacitor Bank for Reactive Power Compensation Using Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

Power system operators are always faced with the dilemma of how to reduce the transmission loss. There are many ways to attain this target. In this thesis, new method for optimal capacitor placement for transmission loss minimization is planned. Proposed methods are based on the optimal capacitor placement formulations, which allow the cost benefit analysis and multi-objective optimization consideration of reactive power support investment. For better design of proposed methods, they are applied to a real and test transmission networks. A distribution system is an interface between bulk power system and consumer. Among these radial distribution is popular because of low power and simple design. In distribution system voltage reduce when moved away from the substation also loses are high. The main reason of high amount of losses and reduce voltage is insufficient amount of reactive power which can be minimized by the capacitor, but the accurate size and proper allocation of capacitor is always a challenge thus the optimal capacitor placement problem is to determine the location and size of capacitors to be placed in distribution networks in an well-organized way to decrease the power losses and get better the voltage outline of the system. Genetic algorithm technique is used to determine the correct condenser place and size to reduce losses and general condenser costs.

Keywords: Power system, power losses, genetic algorithm, distribution networks, capacitor, ORPC, shunt capacitor banks, MATLAB, KVAR, Dimension Reducing Load Flow, Reactive power support