Optimal Deployment of Distributed Generators using Ant Colony Optimization to Minimize Line Losses and Improve Voltage Profiles on Distribution Network

Abstract

Power losses and poor voltage profiles are becoming common problems in some part of Nigeria distribution network owing to its large and complex system which has been addressed partly by this study. This paper focuses on the optimal placement of Distributed Generator (DG) on distribution network to minimize power losses and improve voltage profile. An 11 kV Piggery distribution feeder of Abuja Electricity distribution Company, Minna was modelled in Electrical Transient Analysis Program (ETAP). Subsequently, load flow analysis of the network was carried out to establish a base case by simulation. Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) program written in MATLAB was used for the optimal placement of DG on the system. The results obtained showed 10.7% improvement in the voltage profile of the system and 66% percent reduction in power line losses.