Voltage control in power networks based on smart inverter functions and implementation of sparrow optimisation algorithm

Purpose This study aims to examine the implementation of smart inverters for dynamic Volt–VAr control in power networks. In addition to optimising the voltage levels at individual or multiple nodes within the distribution network, the minimisation of both active and reactive power losses is addressed. To achieve optimal voltage regulation across all nodes, a multi-objective function is formulated that incorporates voltage deviation and power losses weighted by appropriate coefficients. The Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) is used to optimise this multi-objective function. Design/methodology/approach The optimisation of voltage levels and power losses is conducted on both a simple power network and a section of the Netherlands–Belgium interconnection, using the smart functions of inverters. For the simple network, optimisation was applied to a single node, whereas for the Netherlands–Belgium interconnection, optimisation was performed on both individual nodes and all nodes. The Sparrow Search Algorithm was used to realise the optimisation process. Findings The results and analysis show that the Sparrow Search Algorithm is appropriate for this purpose and provides adequate results for different types of power networks. The smart functions of smart inverters applied to a given power network can significantly reduce the negative effects of a large penetration of photovoltaic (PV) systems on that network. Practical implications This approach can be successfully applied in power network analysis in which PV plants with smart inverters are abundant. This approach can help determine the most appropriate connection node for a given PV plant, assess the positive influence the smart inverter will have on voltage levels and power losses in the network and can also be applied in practice for the optimisation of voltage levels in all nodes of a given network with PV plants equipped with smart inverters, as well as for the minimisation of active and reactive power losses. Originality/value An optimisation technique using SSA as an optimisation tool has been successfully applied to improve voltage levels and power losses in a power network by implementing the smart functions of a smart inverter. For this analysis, proper modelling of different types of power networks was performed, as well as adequate modelling of all the elements in the power network and their roles. This study also highlights the added value of a smart inverter, which is realised by implementing an optimisation algorithm. With this added function, instead of a static response to voltage changes, the smart inverter can optimise its Volt–VAr output as a dynamic response depending on the daily changing network topology, as well as changes in the objective function.