Enhancing grid stability and energy efficiency through optimal integration of photovoltaic distributed generations and DSTATCOMs: case study of Algeria’s power system

Energy production from fossil fuels contributes to pollution, global warming, and climate change, making the transition to renewable and cleaner energy sources essential. Photovoltaic solar energy, which account for the majority of distributed energy integrated into electrical networks, emerges as a promising alternative. In these systems, Distribution Static Compensators (DSTATCOMs) help manage reactive power and enhance overall network performance. This paper proposes a strategy for the optimal integration of photovoltaic distributed generators (PV-DGs) and DSTATCOMs into electrical distribution networks to increase grid efficiency and resilience. The primary objective is to determine the optimal placement and sizing of PV-DG systems and DSTATCOMs to minimize power losses, improve voltage profiles, and enhance overall network stability. To address this multi-objective problem, the Artificial Rabbit Optimization (ARO) algorithm was used. The approach was validated on the standard IEEE 33-bus distribution network and a real-world 112-bus Algerian network, demonstrating its effectiveness. The results indicate that the ARO algorithm is highly efficient in planning the integration of PV power generation and DSTATCOMs, achieving significant reductions in power losses, improved voltage profiles, and enhanced network stability.