Application of Binarry Firefly Algorithn for Efficient Capacitor Placement and Sizing to Reduce Power Losses Yoakim Simamora, Erita Astrid, Michael Fritz Immanuel , Lisa Melvi Ginting, Agnes Irene Silitonga, Mega Silfia Dewy
Universitas Negeri Medan
Abstract
Optimally placing capacitors in radial distribution networks is essential for reducing real power losses and improving voltage stability, which contributes to the efficiency and reliability of the electrical system. This study introduces a robust method based on Binary Firefly Algorithm (BFA) to identify the most suitable locations and ratings for shunt capacitors. The approach aims to minimize active power losses and keep voltage levels within standard limits, all while complying with constraints such as allowable voltage ranges at buses and permissible capacitor sizes. The effectiveness of the proposed technique is evaluated using benchmark IEEE radial distribution test systems, with the results demonstrating notable improvements in both power loss minimization and voltage regulation compared to traditional methods. ased on the analysis and simulation results, BFA algorithm demonstrated the most optimal performance in reducing power losses in the distribution system. Compared to other algorithms used in this study, Bfa consistently identified the best combination of capacitor placement and sizing that resulted in the lowest total power loss.The effectiveness of BFA lies in its balanced exploration and exploitation capabilities within the solution space, enabling it to find optimal solutions that not only significantly reduce power losses but also improve voltage profiles throughout the system. Furthermore, from an economic perspective, BFA outperforms other methods in terms of net savings, defined as the difference between the energy cost savings due to loss reduction and the investment cost of the installed capacitors. Overall, BFA has proven to be the most efficient and effective approach for optimizing capacitor placement and sizing, delivering superior performance in both technical and economic aspects.
Keywords: firefly algorithm, power loss, voltage profil
