Maximizing DG penetration in power distribution networks based on cost/benefit analysis

Voltage distribution and power flow may be influenced when distributed generation (DG) penetration in the distribution network increases. Research on optimal placement of DG should be carried out to maximize the benefits of DG and improve the penetration level of renewable energy. Considering the economy and ecology of DGs, we propose a nonlinear decreasing inertia-weight Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to solve the problem of optimal DG placement. The proposed method can avoid the early-maturing of the PSO and enhance the convergence speed of the algorithm. It is confirmed by a case study that optimal DG placement can be obtained on the premise of safe operation by using the method proposed in this paper and the economy and ecology of the system are enhanced.