Using Harmony Search Algorithm to Solve the Optimal Reactive Power Compensation for Radial Distribution Network

The harmony search algorithm, an optimization algorithm is derived from the improvisational musician to play the notes to find harmony sound better. This paper presents methods of calculating the optimum compensate reactive power for radial distribution network using harmony search algorithm combined with the backward/forward sweep power flow method. The results run the program on the 34 bus IEEE network shows calculation program better than the existing algorithms. Applying this program to calculate the optimal compensation reactive power for feeder 477-E152 of Thangbinh-Quannam Province. Calculation results from the program have shown the efficiency by reducing power losses, improving voltage quality, saving significant costs and ensuring reliability for computing applications of radial distribution networks in general