Hybrid GMSA for optimal placement and sizing of distributed generation and shunt capacitors

This work presents a hybrid approach based on the genetic algorithm (GA) and moth swarm algorithm (MSA), namely genetic moth swarm algorithm (GMSA). Minimizing the electrical power loss in radial distribution systems (RDN) within the framework of system operation and under system constraints is the main objective of this study. In GMSA, the global search ability has been regulated by the incorporation of GA operations by the adaptive mutation operator on the reconnaissance phase using genetic pathfinder moths. In addition, the selection of artificial light sources has been expanded over the swarm. The representation of individuals within the three phases of MSA has been modified in term of quality and ratio. Elite individuals have been used to play different roles in order to reduce the design space and thus increase the exploitation ability. GMSA and other optimization methods have been carried out on the IEEE 33 and 69-bus power systems. The reduction of power loss and total system cost in addition to the improvement of the minimum bus voltage are simulated for the competitive algorithms under several power system constraints and conditions. The computational results proved the superiority of the GMSA compared with other techniques.