Snow Ablation Optimizer for Optimal Insertion of D-STATCOMs in a Grid-Tied Microgrid Considering Reactive Power Tariffs

This manuscript, introduces a novel approach utilizing a snow ablation optimizer for the simultaneous optimal placement and sizing of Distribution Static Synchronous Compensators (D-STATCOMs) in a grid-tied microgrid, with the objective of minimizing real and reactive power losses and improving voltage stability indices. An extensive techno-economic analysis is conducted considering the reactive power tariffs, to examine the feasibility of the proposed method, for three distinct D-STATCOMs configurations. The analysis demonstrates that in terms of technical performance metrics, minimal differences is observed between two and three D-STATCOM allocations. Whereas, the optimal configuration for two D-STATCOMs yields the maximum economic savings.