Single- and multi-objective optimization for photovoltaic distributed generators implementation in probabilistic power flow algorithm

In this study, probabilistic power flow (PPF) for radial distribution systems (RDSs) integrated with photovoltaic (PV) distributed generators (DGs) is presented. The PPF is carried out using a combined approach of cumulants generating function and Gram–Charlier expansion. To express the intermittent nature of the PV power generation and demand powers, the random probabilities for solar irradiance and load demand are considered and modeled in the PPF. The benefits of PVDGs integration into RDS can be accomplished by their optimal placement and sizing. Hence, two optimization approaches are implemented to allocate the PVDG in the RDS. The first optimization approach utilizes a single-objective function based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) to minimize the total power losses in RDSs, while the second approach uses the multi-objective PSO (MOPSO) to minimize the total power losses and voltage deviation. However, in case of MOPSO, a fuzzy logic decision making is developed to adopt a suitable solution from the optimal Pareto set according to the decision-maker preference. The developed algorithm is verified using two standard IEEE radial distribution systems: IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus. The obtained results prove the ability of the developed algorithm in solving the PPF considering the optimal PVDG allocation with low computational time.