Reactive power compensation for radial distribution networks using genetic algorithm

In the present work, genetic algorithm is applied to select the optimum values of fixed and switched shunt capacitors required to be placed on a radial distribution network under varying load conditions so as to minimize the energy loss while keeping the voltage at load buses within the specified limit by taking the cost of the capacitors into account. Both fixed and marginal costs of the capacitors are considered to obtain the best overall performance. The voltage constraint is included as penalty term in the objective function. Further, instead of only assuming the capacitors as a constant reactive power load, it is also been considered as a constant impedance load in optimization problem itself and comparison of performances for both considerations are also presented. Also possible convergence criteria of genetic algorithm based on 'the difference between best fitness and average fitness' of population is suggested to reduce the CPU time required to a great extent with a very small sacrifice in overall savings. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.