Optimal filter placement and sizing in radial distribution system using whale optimization algorithm

Radial Distribution System (RDS) is the most widely used system for power distribution because it has a simple architecture and low investment cost. Due to the addition of nonlinear loads, some challenges are raised such as power losses, and the spread of harmonics. The increasing harmonic distortion will result in shorter insulation lifetime, higher temperature and also device malfunction. These are undesirable as it may affect the voltage profile and increase the power losses. Therefore, to reduce these undesirable impacts, this paper proposes the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) to determine optimal size and placement of passive harmonic filters to reduce power losses and keep the effective harmonic voltage profile and the total harmonic distortion (THD) within prescribed limits. Also, harmonic load flow (HLF) based on backward-forward sweep algorithm is performed to show the effect of harmonic sources on total power loss. The proposed methodology used in this paper can be easily extended to different radial distribution network configurations. The proposed algorithm is validated by applying it on the standard 13-bus test system.