Power loss minimization of an IEEE 33 bus radial distribution grid using system reconfiguration with genetic algorithm

This study tackles the issue of active and reactive power losses by reconfiguring a radial distribution network and optimizing the placement and sizing of distributed generation (DG) units and capacitors to improve network reliability and voltage management. The reconfiguration process is intricate and nonlinear, requiring the identification of the optimal radial arrangement to meet these objectives. These goals are mathematically formulated and addressed using optimization algorithms. The study explored the combined use of DG and capacitors in the reconfiguration process, finding that this integrated approach yielded better results than using either component alone. The combination of DG and capacitors notably reduced power losses and enhanced voltage profiles, underscoring the effectiveness of their joint deployment in distribution systems. Simulations were conducted on a 33-bus system, and findings were analysed across various scenarios, comparing the system's performance before and after optimization. MATLAB and ETAP were employed to obtain the results.