Optimal allocation of distributed generator in a radial distribution system using genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization

Many areas in power systems require solving one or more nonlinear optimization problems. Optimal allocation of distributed generators (DGs) is one of them. This paper proposes two optimization methods to determine the optimal allocation of distributed generators in radial distribution systems (RDS), for the purpose of maximizing power loss reduction and improving voltage profile. The proposed methodology uses Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to optimize the objective function and is used to compare it with the analytical method of optimization. The Genetic Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization methods are tested on a standard radial distribution test systems, which is, IEEE 33 bus RDS using MATLAB R2008b. The results indicate that the optimal location of the DG is at bus number 6, with a power loss reduction of 83.3 kW.