Multiple and Combined Optimization of Resources in Distribution Power Systems

This work proposes a method for the joint solution of problems of reconfiguration, allocation and sizing of capacitors and allocation and adjustment of voltage regulators, aiming at improving the profits related to the operation of unbalanced distribution systems. It is developed in MATLAB and based on a Genetic Algorithm, communicating with OpenDSS for the solution of the load flows. It uses a serial and cyclical solution of the problems, also considering the solution of different combinations of individuals for each problem, allowing the obtaining of multiple unique solutions of high quality. The costs of equipment are modeled in a closer way to what is made by utilities instead of a more traditional power only based approach, making it more useful for planning engineers in the definition of the best alternative for a given system. The method was tested a modified 123 bus IEEE test case, being able to improve profits by 11% with different network configurations.