Allocation and Sizing of Distributed Energy Resources and Capacitor Banks Considering Network Reconfiguration Through Multi-Objective Optimization Algorithms

The incorporation of renewable energies into existing energy infrastructures plays a significant role in advancing sustainable development. One of the tools that can be employed to operate distribution networks efficiently and yield various technical advantages is the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) based on renewable sources. However, such benefits require their installation in appropriate locations with adequate selection of their dimensions. Another approach that can be employed to ensure efficient network operation is the reconfiguration of the distribution network. Reconfiguration is regarded as an operational approach to minimize power losses and enhance network characteristics. Thus, in this paper, a multi-objective optimization approach is proposed for the efficient allocation and sizing of DERs and capacitor banks (CBs) simultaneously with network reconfiguration to reduce power losses and to minimize investment and operation costs, while ensuring compliance with the physical and operational constraints of the distribution system. The multi-objective optimization problem formulation, which includes aspects such as daily analysis, associated costs, as well as other pertinent variables, is solved using the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and the Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm 2 (SPEA 2), in addition to the Fuzzy Decision-making Method. Finally, the results demonstrate significant improvements in system performance as well as greater overall efficiency in energy supply compared to the original systems.