Optimal sizing and location of open-UPQC in distribution networks considering load growth

Voltage and current deficiencies in distribution network (DN) necessitate the improvement of power quality (PQ). Custom power devices (CPDs) compensate for these deficiencies. Recently, in presence of communication infrastructure in smart distribution network, open unified power quality conditioner (OUPQC) is attracted the attention of DN researchers and operators. OUPQC is utilized in DN to improve voltage and current deficiencies by operation of its series unit (SEU) and shunt units (SHU), respectively. Simultaneous compensation capability of voltage and current in distribution network increase its utilization by network operator. In steady state condition, the operation of SHUs compensate the reactive power flow in distribution network and the operation of SEU improve the voltage deficiencies in installation location. Hence, the optimum utilization of OUPQC result in maximization of its benefit for voltage and current improvement. In this regard, the planning of distribution network is performed considering the utilization of OUPQC and load growth. The optimum location, size and installation time of OUPQC is determined for minimizing the cost of distribution network during the planning horizon. Power loss reduction and voltage profile improvement are considered as benefits of the proposed planning approach. On the other hand, the added costs to the distribution network include the installation and maintenance costs of SEU and SHUs of OUPQC. The proposed planning approach is utilized to be tested on both standard IEEE 69-bus and practical Iranian 95-bus distribution networks. The results show that the proposed planning method is effective in term of economic and technical parameters of distribution networks and is useful for network planners.