Firefly algorithm for optimal allocation and sizing of Distributed Generation in radial distribution system for loss minimization

The distribution network is one of the most important parts of the energy system, because it is the final interface that leads to the most customers. Therefore, he must keep customers good quality energy with a good voltage profile provided by a minimum power loss. To ensure the latter, the introduction of DG in the distribution network plays a key role. The location and size of DG are important because a bad selection has a negative impact on the system behavior. This paper proposes a Firefly algorithm (FA) to solve this problem by optimizing the location and size of DGs in radial distribution system. FA is a meta-heuristic algorithm which is inspired by the flashing behavior of fireflies. The primary purpose of firefly´s flash is to act as a signal system to attract other fireflies. In this paper, IEEE 69-bus distribution test system is used to show the effectiveness of the FA. Comparison with genetic algorithm (GA) is also given.