Optimal Capacitor switching in distribution networks using genetic algorithm

Today, the increasing need for maximum utilization of existing transmission systems and developing new types of static and controllable reactive power Compensating devices, the necessity of shunt capacitors in the distribution system is made more and more evident. Because the loads of a distribution network was not permanently employed and change during every hours a day and to prevent increases in network voltage due to capacitors existence, capacitor switching must done effectively so that in times that voltage increases, the installed capacity can be controlled.In this paper a control scheme to determine the optimal capacity of switched capacitors in distribution networks using genetic algorithm is presented and optimized capacity with the aim of maximizing the benefits from network and HV / MV transformers loss reduction, with considering costs in Purchase, installation and maintenance of capacitors were obtained. Finally, the maximum number of capacitor banks on each load node, with considering the daily changes, optimum mode of capacitors switching is determined.