A Comparison of Capacitor Optimal Placement Methods Considering Practical Limitations: A Case Study of Distribution Network in Nicaragua

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to model a distribution feeder in OpenDSS. Studies are conducted on the data obtained from Nicaragua Electric Power Utility. This thesis develops models for 13.8 kV (medium voltage) distribution feeders in OpenDSS by utilizing the existing models in QGIS. The OpenDSS model is achieved by a detailed one-to-one component matching approach for multi-phased lines, conductors, loads, and transformers. The power flow results of OpenDSS and actual data are compared to derive meaningful conclusions. The second objective is to apply capacitor (CAP) in the modeled network to supply reactive power to minimize loss and improve the voltage profile. The appropriate placement of capacitors is also essential to ensure minimal system power losses and total capacitor costs. Nevertheless, there are some challenges to employing CAP in the distribution network, ensuring the most optimum placement and size is a big challenge to get the maximum benefits. In this literature, the comparison between the 2/3 rule for a simplified network and particle swarm optimization (PSO) for a modeled network is presented to find the proper implementation of CAP in the distribution system. Further, this thesis evaluates the impact of involving CAP on economic aspects. The cost-effective combination capacitor will be analyzed to indicate the benefit of the techniques.