TY - JOUR
T1 - Optimizing Volt-Var Control in PV-Integrated Microgrids Using Harmony Search Algorithm for Power Distribution Systems
AU - Andrei Popescu
AU - Mihai Ionescu
AU - Elena Stan
JF - Journal of Smart Grids, Energy Analytics and Optimization
JO - J Smart Grids Energy Anal Optim
Y1 - 2024
VL - 3
IS - 1
SP - 68
N2 - This study introduces a coordinated control approach to address the challenge of volt-var optimization (VVO), incorporating load tap-changing transformers, step-voltage regulators, and switched-capacitor banks, along with a photovoltaic (PV)-integrated microgrid. The harmony search (HS) metaheuristic algorithm was applied to efficiently compute the globally optimal operating parameters for these devices, ensuring robust performance across fluctuating operating conditions. The key aims of the volt-var control strategy were to achieve substantial reductions in active power losses, peak demand, and voltage deviations throughout the distribution system, while simultaneously maintaining bus voltages within acceptable regulatory limits under all possible load scenarios. The optimization problem is a mixed-integer nonlinear program with discrete decision variables, binary variables representing capacitor bank switching states (on/off), integer variables for voltage regulator tap positions, continuous variables for the microgrid’s injected current, and nonlinear network power-flow constraints. The proposed methodology was tested and validated on the standard IEEE 13-node distribution test feeder. Time-series simulations used realistic daily load profiles from the main grid, along with the microgrid’s PV output, both resolved at 15-minute intervals. All power flow computations were carried out with OpenDSS (version 9.5.1.1, released in 2022), an established open-source distribution system analysis tool. The developed control framework supports both real-time operation and long-term planning studies. Simulation results showed that the integrated volt-var coordination significantly reduced total active power losses, lowered peak demand, and effectively mitigated voltage variations across the network.
UR - https://isespub.com/y552496045
ER -