Discrete particle swarm optimization for optimal DG placement in distribution networks

This paper proposes a new PSO based method to solve optimization problems having discrete variables. The conventional PSO provides tentative solutions having continuous decision variables. The proposed discrete PSO (DPSO) method utilizes the inherent inability of PSO to solve problems with discrete variables. In the proposed method each of these tentative solutions generates a set of solutions with discrete decision variables. Out of this set, the best fit solution is selected for the further computation. Moreover, a repair algorithm is suggested to correct infeasible individuals whenever appeared in the set of tentative solutions. The proposed method is applied to solve the optimal distributed generation placement problem in radial distribution systems with the objectives to reduce annual energy losses and node voltage deviations. The proposed method is tested on 69 bus test distribution system and the application results are promising when compared with recent techniques.