Comparing NSGA-II and SPEA2 metaheuristics in solving the problem of optimal capacitor banks placement and sizing in distribution grids considering harmonic distortion restrictions

This paper focus on the optimal capacitor banks placement and sizing problem in radial distribution systems considering the presence of non-linear loads and their effects on the voltage harmonic distortion. A comparison between two multiobjective optimization methods used to solve this problem is accomplished, namely, NSGA II and SPEA 2. The performed analysis has shown that both algorithms are appropriate to solve the problem, particularly by the multiple solutions that form the Pareto front from which can be extracted convenient solutions. It is also emphasized the differences between the two methods and their consequences in determining the results. The relevance of this work is founded on new challenges that are related to resonance problems involved in the placement of capacitor banks in distribution systems.