Cuckoo search algorithm approach for optimal placement and sizing of distribution generation in radial distribution networks

Abstract

Radial distribution networks (RDNs) often experience power loss due to improper distribution generation (DG) allocation. Strategic DG placement can reduce power loss, minimize costs, and improve voltage profiles and stability. This research optimizes DG placement and sizing in RDNs using the cuckoo search algorithm (CSA). The objective function considers losses across all network branches, and CSA identifies optimal DG locations and sizes. Tested on IEEE 33-bus, IEEE 69-bus, and Nigeria's Imalefalafia 32-bus RDN, the Cuckoo Search technique results in optimal DG locations at buses 6, 50, and 18 with corresponding sizes of 2.4576, 1.852, and 2.718 MW, respectively. Voltage improvements are 0.9509, 0.9817, and 0.9821 p.u, while total active and reactive power losses for IEEE 33-bus are reduced by 49.03% and 45.00%, and for IEEE 69-bus by 63.67% and 61.14%. The CSA approach significantly enhances voltage profiles and reduces power losses in these networks.