Energy Saving Analysis on Distribution Network with Incorporation of D-STATCOM Using a Two-Stage Approach

Abstract

The proliferation of non-linear loads at the distribution network calls for the need to strengthen its capability to constantly ensure adequate reactive power flow on the feeder. Otherwise, the network stands the risk of the threat of poor voltage and severe active power loss. It is on this premises that this research employed distribution static synchronous compensator as reactive power support to mitigate these challenges. The network steady-state parameters were obtained with a backward forward sweep power flow approach, while the power loss index and firefly algorithm were employed for the pre-selection of candidate sites and optimal sizes and sites respectively. Three different levels of compensation were investigated and assessed using the cost of procurement, cost of energy savings, payback times, voltage profile enhancement, and active power loss reduction. The simulation results for case I, case II, and case III in terms of optimal sites and sizes are (6, 1000kVar); (12, 349.69kVar; 22, 867.29kVar) and (5, 1200kVar; 14, 424.34kVar; 21, 350kVar) respectively. Also, for each level of compensation, the percentage improvements at the bus with minimum magnitude are 0.6, 0.78, 0.79% and corresponding active power loss reductions are 59.03, 70.57 and 91.78 %. From the economic perspective, cost of procurement ($), annual energy savings ($), and payback time (years) are (5,303.5, 1,461.00, 3.63); (6,454.25, 1,746.66, 3.69); (10,471, 2, 271.58, 4.61) respectively. Also, the results validation showed that the approach proposed outsmarted other optimization algorithms. The outcome of this research finds application in enhancement of radial distribution performance and also can form basis for policy perspective to the distribution network operators.