Application of hybrid heuristic technique for optimal shunt capacitors planning problem in radial distribution network

This paper proposes a hybrid HS–DE algorithm-based optimal node identification and sizing of shunt capacitors with an aim to enhance the performance of the radial distribution network. To enhance the exploitation power of harmony search algorithm (HSA), differential evolution algorithm (DE) is embedded with it. The combination of sensitivity analysis and hybrid HS–DE algorithm is used to trace the optimal solution for the installation of shunt capacitive compensation. A comprehensive objective function is formulated to minimize real power loss, improve the voltage stability and voltage profile of the distribution network. The suitability of the proposed hybrid HS–DE-based approach has been validated using IEEE 69 node radial distribution test network at three discrete load scenarios, and the result outcomes are compared with HSA, DE and other similar methods in the literature. The simulation results reflect the superiority and robustness of the hybrid HS–DE-based approach for solving shunt capacitor planning problem in radial distribution networks.