A Novel Metaheuristic Approach for Loss Reduction and Voltage Profile Improvement in Power Distribution Networks Based on Simultaneous Placement and Sizing of Distributed Generators and Shunt Capacitor Banks

In this paper, Neural Network Algorithm is employed for simultaneous placing and sizing Distributed Generators and Shunt Capacitors Banks in distribution network to minimize active power loss and improve the voltage profile. The NNA is a novel developed optimizer based on the concept of artificial neural networks which benefits from its unique structure and search operators for solving complex optimization problems. The difficulty of tuning the initial parameters and trapping in local optima is eliminated in the proposed optimizer. The capability and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm are evaluated on IEEE 69-bus distribution system with considering nine cases and the results are compared with previous published methods. Simulation outcomes of the recommended algorithm are assessed and compared with those attained by Genetic Algorithms, Grey Wolf Optimizer, and Water Cycle Algorithm. The analysis of these results is conclusive in regard to the superiority of the proposed algorithm.J. Del Ser and E. Osaba would like to thank the Spanish Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnologico Industrial (CDTI, Ministry of Science and Innovation) through the “Red Cervera” Programme (AI4ES project), as well as by the Basque Government through EMAITEK and ELKARTEK (ref. 3KIA) funding grants. J. Del Ser also acknowledges funding support from the Department of Education of the Basque Government (Consolidated Research Group MATHMODE, IT1294-19)