Optimum apc placement and sizing in radial distribution systems using discrete firefly algorithm for power quality improvement

Abstract

This paper presents an improved solution to determine simultaneously the optimal location and size of active power conditioners (APCs) in distribution systems using the discrete firefly algorithm (DFA) for power quality enhancement. A multi-criterion objective function is defined to enhance voltage profile of the system, to minimize voltage total harmonic distortion and total investment cost. The performance analysis of the proposed DFA is performed in the Matlab software on the radial IEEE 34-bus test system to demonstrate its effectiveness. The DFA results are then compared with the standard firefly algorithm, standard particle swarm optimization (PSO), genetic algorithm, and discrete PSO. The simulation and comparison of results prove that the DFA can accurately determine the optimal location and size of the APCs in radial distribution systems.