Power Factor Improvement in Regional Distribution Feeders with Optimal Allocation of Distributed Generators and Shunt Capacitors

This paper critically assesses power factor (pf) compensation techniques for the regional distribution feeders, focusing on Distributed Generators (DGs) and shunt capacitors. Therefore, the research aims to identify the potential of distribution networks to maximize efficiency by combining the Backward Forward Sweep (BFS) with the Sea Horse Optimization (SHO) algorithm. Through extensive testing using Torrit software and the MATPOWER toolbox, the study primarily focuses on two scenarios: one type of the DGs known as type 2 DGs, which only injects the reactive power. One of the scenarios includes Q as a shunt capacitance, while the second model represents type 3 DGs that supply both active power (P) and reactive power (Q). The type 2 DG deployment reduces the reactive power loss in the network. On the other hand, the use of type 3 DGs leads to a significant enhancement of pf as well as enhancement of the voltage profile. Most notably, coordinating type 3 DGs with shunt capacitors reveals that they work well hand in hand, contributing to better network improvement. This study offers a specific analysis of DGs deployment for utility operators and presents a roadmap for aiding their decision-making process in efficiently analyzing power systems' optimization.