Hosting Capacity Assessment in Electrical Power Distribution Systems Using Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

Environmental issues and the current global energy crisis serve as further motivators for the promotion of renewable energy sources. However, integrating these sources into existing power grids presents numerous challenges. As the connection capacity approaches its limits, it is imperative to employ innovative engineering methods to integrate distributed generation (DG) into resilient, self-healing smart grids of the future. One such tool is Hosting Capacity (HC) analysis, which is an emerging power system-planning tool used to position investments toward parts of the network that can absorb additional generation and promote efficient use of energy sources, avoiding overloading, inefficiencies, DG misallocations, and network failures. In this study, a technique for calculating the ideal HC in a power system is presented. The goal of this research is to develop a replicable optimization methodology for determining HC in smart distribution systems using a single objective constrained optimization problem solved through the use of genetic algorithm (GA). Detailed power system load and generation modeling and the use of advanced open-source research tool for load flow optimization improve the confidence in the proposed model. This research contributes to collective knowledge of the subject matter and establishes a reliable optimization methodology for determining HC in power systems.

Keywords:

• distribution network
• hosting capacity
• distributed generation
• OpenDSS
• PV integration

Disclosure statement

There are no financial conflicts of interest to disclose.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Merisa Hanjalić

Merisa Hanjalić received the BSc degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Sarajevo in 2021. She is currently a final year Master student at the Department of Smart Grid at the International Burch University, Sarajevo. Main interest of her research includes RES analysis and integration, power markets as well as electrical grid system analysis.

Emina Melić

Emina Melić received the BSc degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the International Burch University, BiH in 2021. She is currently a final year Master student at the Department of Smart Grid at the International Burch University, Sarajevo. Main interest of her research includes power plant system design, analysis and integration of RES into distribution network. (e-mail: [email protected])

Mirza Šarić

Mirza Šarić graduated with honors in the field of Electrical & Computer Systems Engineering at Monash University, Australia. He holds an MSc degree from School of Economics, University of Sarajevo and PhD in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from International Burch University. He is currently working as assistant professor at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at International Burch University. His research interests include electrical power systems, renewable energy and engineering economics. (e-mail: [email protected])

Jasna Hivziefendić

Jasna Hivziefendić received the Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Tuzla, BiH, in 2014. She is currently an associate professor at the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, at the International Burch University, Sarajevo. Her research interests include integration of RES into electrical grid and electrical distribution system planning and optimization. (e-mail: [email protected])