Optimal integration of distributed generation in distribution networks using a novel serial hybridization approach: Technical, economic, and environmental impacts

The penetration of distributed generators (DGs) into the distribution networks (DNs) offers many potential benefits, but also presents significant challenges. An unplanned integration of these energy sources can have profound impacts on the existing power network. Therefore, the main purpose of the study is to determine the appropriate penetration of DGs into the network to minimize objectives simultaneously: (1) operating cost, (2) voltage deviation, (3) power loss, (4) harmonics, and (5) emissions. The study proposes a novel serial hybridization method that combines the harmonious simulation between particle swarm optimization (PSO) and arithmetic optimization algorithm (AOA), named PSO/AOA. The obtained results indicate that the proposed hybrid method outperforms the two implemented methods and seven previously published methods in both the IEEE 33-node and the IEEE 69-node DNs. As a result of effectively connecting DGs, the hourly operating cost is reduced to only $14,783 and $13,719, the total power loss is decreased by 58.65% and 67.56%, and the highest voltage enhancement level has been achieved by 8.57% and 7.90% for the first grid and the second grid, respectively. Additionally, harmonics have been significantly mitigated, and compliance with IEEE Standard 519 has been achieved. This demonstrates the substantial multifaceted benefits of optimizing the connection of DGs within DNs.