Optimal Reactive Power Compensation in Distribution Networks with Radial and Meshed Structures Using D-STATCOMs: A...

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Operations Research
• Optimization

Background:

• Minimizing operating costs in electrical distribution networks is crucial.
• Distribution static compensators (D-STATCOMs) are key for voltage regulation and loss reduction.
• Existing optimization models for D-STATCOM siting and sizing can be computationally complex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an efficient method for optimal siting and sizing of D-STATCOMs.
• To minimize total annual operating costs, including investment and energy loss costs.
• To provide a robust formulation applicable to diverse distribution network topologies.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) model for D-STATCOM optimization.
• Development of a mixed-integer convex reformulation for enhanced computational efficiency.
• Power flow analysis using incidence matrix representation to model network behavior.
• Validation using MATLAB with CVX and Gurobi solver for the convex model and GAMS for the MINLP model.

Main Results:

• The proposed mixed-integer convex model efficiently determines optimal D-STATCOM placement and sizing.
• The formulation accurately minimizes expected total annual operating costs.
• The model demonstrates applicability to both radial and meshed distribution grid configurations.
• Comparative analysis confirms the robustness of the convex formulation against metaheuristic and approximation methods.

Conclusions:

• The developed mixed-integer convex reformulation offers an efficient and robust solution for D-STATCOM optimal siting and sizing.
• This approach effectively reduces annual operating costs in electrical distribution networks.
• The method's versatility across different grid configurations enhances its practical applicability in power system operations.