A Classification-Based Global Optimization Approach for Integrated Planning of Distributed Generation, Capacitor Banks, and Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Radial Distribution Networks

In order to improve the electrical grid flexibility and efficiency, distributed energy resources (DERs), capacitor banks (CBs), and electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) are being integrated into active power distribution networks. However, radial distribution networks have large electrical losses from unidirectional power flow and growing EV penetration, as well as voltage drops and power flow exceeding the thermal capacity limit of some distribution branches. This study is based on the Classification Global Optimization (CGO) approach to include EVCS’s under different hosting factors (30%, 40%, and 50%). The applied CGO framework uses a deterministic global function that includes minimization of electrical losses, reducing the voltage deviation index, increasing the cost of saved energy due to losses and decreasing the annual amount of CO2 emission, this done for the simultaneous placement and sizing of EVCSs, DGs, and CBs after classifying the network buses according to voltage sensitivity and power consumption. Active power loss reductions of up to 94.75% and 98.061% with combined integration are demonstrated by validation on IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus systems, while computational efficiency (simulation times < 5 s) is maintained. This enhanced technique offers a scalable solution for contemporary active distribution networks and directly helps Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 9, 11, and 13 by improving grid performance with high EV adoption.