Abstract
This paper introduced a method using hybrid combination of network restructuring and optimal placement of optimally sized distributed generators (DG) to reduce loss and improve voltage profile in a practical transmission network for scenario of high load demand for a period of ten years. A study is performed for four study cases which includes the test transmission network without considering optimal DG placement and network restructuring, considering network restructuring, optimal placement of DG units using proposed grid parameter oriented harmony search algorithm (GPOHSA) and considering hybrid combination of network restructuring and DG placement using GPOHSA. Network restructuring is achieved by addition of a new 400 kV Grid-substation (GSS) and a 220 kV GSS along with associated transmission system. GPOHSA is obtained by a modification in the conventional harmony search algorithm (HSA) where grid coordinates are used for locating the individuals in an objective space. Performance Improvement Indicators such as real power loss reduction indicator (SPLRI), reactive power loss reduction indicator (SQLRI) and summation of node voltage deviation reduction indicator (SNVDRI) are proposed to evaluate performance of each case of study. The period of investment return is assessed to evaluate the pay back period of the investments incurred in network restructuring and DG units. It is established that hybrid combination of network restructuring and DG units placement using GPOHSA is effective to meet the increased load demand for time period of ten years with reduced losses and improved voltage profile. Investment incurred on the network restructuring and DG units placement will be recovered in a time period of 4 years. Effectiveness of the GPOHSA is better relative to the conventional genetic algorithm (GA) for DG unit placement. The study is performed using the MATLAB software on a practical transmission network in India.