A Multi-Objective Decision-Making Approach for Network Stability Enhancement by Reconfiguration and Installation of DG and Capacitor Units Using Crow Search Algorithm

Abstract

Network Reconfiguration (NR) is an efficient and essential methodology for minimizing power loss (Pl). However, NR is still critically challenging due to its complexity, nonlinearity, and large-scale optimization problem. This work introduces an innovative approach to enhance the Distribution Network (DN) stability and reliability. It addresses a simultaneous optimizing technique within different limits and constraints related to network power flow and voltage limits. It optimizes Distribution Reconfiguration (DR), Distributed Generation Sizing and Location (DG_SL), and shunt Capacitor Sizing and Location (CAP_SL). The main objectives are reducing Pl in the network, improving the Voltage Stability Index (VSI), and improving distribution efficiency. The Analytic-Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Crow Search Algorithm (CSA) are used as the foundation for a Multi-Objective Decision-Making Approach (MODMA). Simulations on IEEE 33 and 69 bus networks were run using MATLAB software to assess the viability of the suggested approach. This study obtains efficient output results and a positive impact on the distribution through the DR, DG_SL, and CAP_SL optimization. This appears through the system Pl reduction. For the IEEE 33-bus system, the reductions in Active Power Loss (Ploss) and Reactive Power Loss (Qloss) are 94.494% and 93.294%, respectively, whereas, for the IEEE 69-bus system, they are 97.097% and 94.412%, respectively. In contrast, the minimum bus voltage for the IEEE 33-bus system improved to 0.9926 p.u. and for the IEEE 69-bus system to 0.9912 p.u. For more validation, by comparing a part of the obtained results with other articles.