Optimal placement of multi-distributed generation units including different load models using particle swarm optimisation

This study proposes a multi-objective index-based approach to optimally determine the size and location of multi-distributed generation (DG) units in distribution system with non-unity power factor considering different load models. It is shown that load models can significantly affect the optimal location and sizing of DG resources in distribution systems. The proposed multi-objective function to be optimised includes a short-circuit-level parameter to represent the protective device requirements. The proposed function also considers a wide range of technical issues such as active and reactive power losses of the system, the voltage profile, the line loading and the Mega Volt Ampere (MVA) intake by the grid. The optimisation technique based on particle swarm optimisation is introduced. The analysis of continuation power flow to determine the effect of DG units on the most sensitive buses to voltage collapse is carried out. The proposed algorithm is tested using the 38-bus radial system and the IEEE 30-bus meshed system. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. © 2011 The Institution of Engineering and Technology.