Capacitor Allocation in Radial Distribution System using Modified Grey Wolf Optimization

This paper presents a pioneering approach for the optimal allocation of fixed and switchable capacitor banks in distribution systems, addressing the intricate balance between technical and economic considerations. By formulating an objective function that minimizes annual costs, incorporating factors such as energy loss, investment, and operation & maintenance expenses, the study introduces the Modified Grey Wolf Optimization (MGWO) algorithm. This algorithm optimizes the placement and dimensions of capacitors, providing a user-friendly solution without intricate tuning parameters. The methodology is evaluated on a 118-bus radial distribution network, demonstrating a substantial 34.69% reduction in active power loss, an enhanced power factor of 0.9465, and improved voltage magnitude. Additionally, the proposed method showcases up to 30% annual cost savings compared to scenarios without capacitor allocation, reinforcing its effectiveness through comparative assessments with other metaheuristic algorithms. This research contributes to advancing optimal capacitor allocation strategies, offering practical insights for improving the efficiency and reliability of distribution networks.