Voltage Profile Improvement and Power Loss Reduction by DG Placement in a Distribution Feeder in Western Nepal

Abstract

A power system is composed of various components that work together to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity to consumers. The distribution system completes the process of delivering electricity to the ultimate users or customers. Radial, loop and network distribution system are basic three types of distribution system design. The radial distribution system is simple and cheapest to build and is extensively used in sparse populated area. However, due to the existence of higher resistance, longer length and lower voltage level in the distribution system network, electrical energy is continuously lost. The distribution system is often viewed as the weakest link in the power system. The ratio of resistance to reactance in a distribution system is higher as compared to transmission system and significant voltage drop along a distribution feeder can cause substantial power and energy losses. Due to Joules effect power loss occurs in distribution feeder account for as much as 13% of the generated energy (1). Therefore, reducing losses in the distribution system is a major challenge for many utility companies worldwide. As per NEA Annual Report 2020/021, in INPS distribution system loss is 10.86%. Reduction of loss in distribution system has been an important area of focus from the time when the development of interconnected power systems. To increase overall effectiveness of the electrical power distribution system, it is crucial to reduce active power loss in the system. By supplying a portion of the reactive demand locally with the aid of capacitors, the active power loss caused by the reactive component of branch current can be decreased (2). Similarly with the help of technique “Reconfiguration of distribution system” power loss of a distribution system can also be reduced (3).