VOLTAGE VANGUARD: GAMS-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS FOR OPTIMIZING CAPACITOR LOCATION AND SIZING IN RURAL ENERGY NETWORKS

Abstract

The need for reducing active power loss in radial distribution systems (RDS) has become paramount as global power consumption continues to rise. This paper presents a new approach using the Generalized Algebraic Modeling Systems (GAMS) software to find the optimal location and sizing of capacitors in RDS. The approach converts the problem into a mixed integer nonlinear program (MINLP) and solves it using MINLP-SBB Solver. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated by testing it on an IEEE 10 bus RDS and comparing the results with other optimization techniques. The approach is found to be both efficient and accurate, providing better results in less execution time. The proposed method significantly reduces power loss, enhances the voltage profile, improves power factor, and ultimately enhances system stability, making it safer to operate. The paper provides a detailed explanation of the problem formulation and necessary mathematical models required to describe the system. The approach has broad applications in the power sector, and its use will result in significant energy savings, making it an essential tool for power system engineers and researchers.