Hunter-Prey Optimization Framework for UPQC Allocation to Improve Efficiency and Voltage Reliability of Power Distribution Network

Maintaining power quality in the power distribution network is a major concern due to the increasing penetration of nonlinear and complex equipment. Unified Power Quality Conditioners (UPQCs) have been widely used as effective compensating devices to mitigate voltage instability and current distortions. However, the major challenge lies in selecting the optimal location and rating of the UPQC in the distribution network. Proper placement of the UPQC significantly improves overall system efficiency by enhancing the voltage profile, reducing active power losses, and improving cost effectiveness. In this study, the Hunter-Prey Optimization (HPO) algorithm is employed to determine the optimal location and rating of the UPQC in the distribution network. The objective function combines active power loss, voltage deviation, and UPQC installation cost while satisfying network and control constraints. The proposed framework is evaluated on the IEEE 33-bus and IEEE 69-bus distribution systems. Simulation results demonstrate that the HPO algorithm efficiently identifies the optimal UPQC placement and rating, resulting in a significant reduction in active power losses of 60% for the IEEE 33-bus system and 93.5% for the IEEE 69-bus system, along with a notable improvement in voltage profiles compared to the system without UPQC.