Cost Analysis Formulation for PV–EVCS–DSTATCOM Integrated Distribution Systems Using Enhanced Hunter–Prey Optimization

With the rapid and significant growth of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Distributed Generation (DGs), such as Photovoltaic (PV) deployment, in the distribution system, it is essential to address the challenges of rising power losses, voltage fluctuations, and reactive power imbalances. Optimal DSTATCOM placement in PV-EV integrated systems to mitigate power quality issues is an effective solution. It is thus necessary to evaluate the economic considerations of such heavily compensated networks. This study proposes Enhanced Hunter-Prey Optimization (EHPO) to assess the net savings of the PV-EVCS-DSTATCOM integrated IEEE-33,69, and 118 bus distribution networks in both single and multi-objective modes. The multi-objective EHPO reduced annualized loss costs from 13.86 to 5.31 million INR (IEEE-33), 14.78 to 5.72 million INR (IEEE-69), and 85.19 to 41.63 million INR (IEEE-118), achieving savings of 51–62% relative to the uncompensated case. In addition, voltage stability improved, with average minimum bus voltages reaching approximately 0.954 p.u. under varying EV penetration levels. The single-objective formulation yielded comparable economic benefits. The results confirm the effectiveness, scalability, and robustness of the EHPO-based optimization in planning economically viable PV–EV–DSTATCOM integrated distribution networks.