Reliability-constrained Based Optimal Placement and Sizing of Multiple Distributed Generators in Power Distribution Network Using Cat Swarm Optimization

This article presents optimal placement and sizing of multiple distributed generators to achieve higher overall system reliability in large-scale primary distribution networks using a novel random search algorithm known as cat swarm optimization. A composite reliability index is used as the objective function in the optimization process. Furthermore, the effect of multiple distributed generator units on power transfer capacity and power loss reduction has been observed. Extensive simulations are carried out based on three practical distribution systems to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Further, qualitative comparisons are made with adaptive weight particle swarm optimization, particle swarm optimization with constriction factor, and binary-coded genetic algorithm to show the efficacy of the proposed method for optimal placement and sizing of distributed generators in power distribution networks.