Assessment of Whale Optimization Algorithm in Maximizing Hosting Capacity of Distributed Generators for Distribution Networks

Abstract

Many optimization methods have been utilized to maximize hosting capacity (HC) of distributed generators (DGs) in power networks. In this paper there is an assessment of proposed whale optimization algorithm (WOA) in distribution networks. Genetic algorithm (GA) technique in addition to differential evolution (DE) and ant lion optimization (ALO) algorithms are three well-known optimization methods which are utilized to determine optimal DGs allocations in power distribution networks. These methods performances are compared with the proposed WOA to assess its efficacy in solving the studied problem. The algorithms are applied to both a practical Cairo distribution network as an Egyptian distribution network and a standard IEEE 136-bus system. The study evaluates the effects of each algorithm on the studied networks in terms of DGs allocations, number of units, operational power factors, convergence characteristics, voltage profiles, voltage deviation indices and minimum/maximum voltage values. The results emphasize proposed WOA superiority for optimally maximizing DGs HC with the studied networks compared with other literature techniques.