Optimization of reactive compensation in distribution networks based on moth swarm intelligence for multi-load levels

The use of capacitor banks is considered as the best-known technique for minimizing the line losses in various distribution networks. Therefore, the appropriate allocations and sizes of capacitors are very important because they affect the reduction of system losses and improvement of the system voltage profile. In this article, a novel algorithm called the moth swarm algorithm (MSA) is developed to optimally determine the locations and sizes for installing capacitor banks in various radial distribution systems (RDN). The objective function is adapted to reduce the system power losses and to reduce total system cost. Consequently, an increase in the annual net saving with inequity constraints on capacitor size and voltage limits considering multi-loading levels is obtained. The validation of the proposed algorithm has been tested and verified through small, medium and large scales of standard RDN of IEEE (22, 69, 85-bus) systems and also on ring main 33-bus system. In addition, the obtained results are compared with other algorithms to highlight the advantages of the proposed approach. Numerical results stated that the MSA can achieve optimal solutions for losses reduction and capacitor locations with the finest performance compared with many existing algorithms.