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Optimizing distribution system performance: A comprehensive review of power loss minimization techniques

The article reviews various techniques for minimizing power losses in distribution networks, focusing on capacitor allocation, distributed generation (DG), and DSTATCOM. It highlights the effectiveness of these strategies in enhancing system performance and energy efficiency, emphasizing the importance of advanced optimization algorithms for capacitor placement. Key findings indicate that simultaneous techniques are particularly effective for loss minimization in high voltage distribution systems.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
6 views

Optimizing distribution system performance: A comprehensive review of power loss minimization techniques

The article reviews various techniques for minimizing power losses in distribution networks, focusing on capacitor allocation, distributed generation (DG), and DSTATCOM. It highlights the effectiveness of these strategies in enhancing system performance and energy efficiency, emphasizing the importance of advanced optimization algorithms for capacitor placement. Key findings indicate that simultaneous techniques are particularly effective for loss minimization in high voltage distribution systems.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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International Journal of Power Electronics and Drive System (IJPEDS)

Vol. 16, No. 2, June 2025, pp. 710~718


ISSN: 2088-8694, DOI: 10.11591/ijpeds.v16.i2.pp710-718  710

Optimizing distribution system performance: A comprehensive


review of power loss minimization techniques

Ismail Moufid, Zineb En-nay, Soukaina Naciri, Hassane El Markhi


Intelligent Systems, Georesources, and Renewable Energies Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering,
Faculty of Science and Technology, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdelah University, Fez, Morocco

Article Info ABSTRACT


Article history: This article presents a thorough examination of contemporary techniques
aimed at minimizing losses in distribution networks by strategically
Received May 13, 2024 allocating capacitors, distributed generators (DG), and distribution static
Revised Jan 18, 2025 synchronous compensators (DSTATCOM). Through an extensive review of
Accepted Mar 1, 2025 background literature and the analysis of current methodologies, the study
distills insights from research articles spanning four decades. The survey
encompasses diverse single and multi-objective methods, considering
Keywords: various constraints in addressing the distribution system loss minimization
problem. Key findings emphasize the effectiveness of capacitor allocation in
Capacitor allocation high voltage distribution networks, the efficiency of DG allocation in
DG allocation integrating small-scale generation, and the growing interest in DSTATCOM
Distribution system allocation for its advantages over traditional capacitor allocation. Particular
DSTATCOM allocation attention is given to simultaneous techniques, identified as the most efficient
Power loss approach for enhancing overall system performance.
This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA license.

Corresponding Author:
Ismail Moufid
Intelligent Systems, Georessources, and Renewable Energies Laboratory
Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology
Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdelah University
Fez 2202, Morocco
Email: [email protected]

1. INTRODUCTION
The electrical grid is a sophisticated system that ensures the supply of electricity all the way to the
end-users. Main components in the composition include power plants, transmission and distribution lines,
transformers, and electric meters [1]. The electrical grid is usually divided into three levels: high voltage,
medium voltage, and low voltage [2]. These levels are designed to carry the energy produced at production
sites to end consumers in order to ensure maximum robustness, optimal efficiency, and improvement in the
safety of electrical installations. Losses in the transmission and distribution network constitute a major
problem in any power system. Increasing demand for electricity, a competitive energy market, and
environmental concerns have led to the operation of transmission and distribution systems mostly under
overloaded conditions, thereby making losses in the distribution system a major cause for concern. Essential
conditions for acceptable power quality and increased efficiency must be met if the economic advantages are
to be fully realized [3]. This has therefore provided an excellent environment for investigating loss
minimization techniques and implementing modern operating practices [4].
The total power received by the distribution system depends on the difference between total power
generation and transmission power losses [5]. Minimizing power losses is the only alternative to improve the
efficiency of the distribution system. Thus, much research interest has been focused on the areas of

Journal homepage: http://ijpeds.iaescore.com


Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst ISSN: 2088-8694  711

distribution system loss minimization and voltage stability for the last few decades [6]. Several techniques
have been proposed in the literature for power loss minimization.
Power losses in electrical systems should be at their minimum to bring forth better overall
efficiency. Some of the techniques employed to minimize power losses include the following:
- Optimal system operation: The employment of advanced algorithms for the optimum scheduling and
dispatch of power generation sources to minimize losses within the system.
- Load shedding and demand response: Intelligent load shedding during peak demand periods and the use
of demand response programs for balancing load and reducing losses.
- Voltage regulation: Voltage regulation practices to maintain voltage within specified limits, allowing for
a reduction in resistive losses.
- Power factor improvement: Installation of power factor correction devices to improve the power factor
and reduce reactive power losses.
- Energy storage systems: Integrating energy storage systems to store excess energy during periods of low
demand and release it during peak demand, smoothing out fluctuations and minimizing losses.
- High-efficiency transformers: This involves upgrading transformers to higher efficiency models with the
view to reducing transformer losses.
- Distributed generation: Integrating dispersed generation, including renewable sources of energy, would
help cut the losses in transmission and distribution by producing power near the consumers.
- Smart grid technologies: Implement smart grid technologies with real-time monitoring and control for
better management of energy flows.
- Loss-aware routing in distribution systems: The smart routing algorithms will facilitate the best use of
electrical power distribution, thus resulting in minimal loss in the distribution network.
- Fault detection and maintenance: This includes periodic fault detection in the power system, which
comprises timely maintenance to avoid inefficiency and loss.
- Dynamic line rating: Dynamic line rating systems that adjust the carrying capacity of transmission lines
depending on real-time weather and operational conditions.
- Transmission line design efficiency: Transmission lines shall be designed to optimize conductor size,
insulation, and routing for minimum resistive losses.
- Advanced metering and monitoring: Advanced metering infrastructure installation will be accompanied
by monitoring systems capable of detecting losses and inefficiencies in real-time.
- Predictive analytics: Predictive analytics, which makes it possible to forecast the conditions leading to the
power losses and take proactive steps towards preventing them.
- Energy-efficiency components: Installation of energy efficiency devices and elements in the power
system, such as efficient motors and transformers.
The combination of the mentioned techniques, considering the specific characteristics of the power system,
can remarkably contribute to power loss minimization and significantly improve the overall efficiency of the
system [7].

2. METHOD
2.1. Approaches for planning and operating involve methodologies for network reconfiguration
The approaches have been adopted for the planning and operation of distribution networks have
been several. The section provides different techniques on methodologies of network reconfiguration,
capacitor allocation, distributed generation (DG), and distribution static synchronous compensator
(DSTATCOM) for the planning and operation of distribution systems.

2.2. Capacitor allocation


Capacitor allocation refers to the strategic placement and optimization of capacitors within an
electrical power system. This process involves determining the most effective locations for installing
capacitors in order to enhance power factor correction, improve voltage regulation, and reduce overall power
losses. The goal of capacitor allocation is to optimize the distribution of capacitive reactive power in the
network, leading to improved energy efficiency and enhanced system performance.
Capacitor allocation is the strategy of placing capacitors at selected points in the power distribution
system to achieve:
- Power factor correction: Improve power factor by canceling out inductive loads, which would
subsequently reduce reactive power demand and improve the efficiency of the overall system.
- Voltage regulation: Stabilize the voltage levels in a way that maintains them within acceptable limits
without causing voltage fluctuations.

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712  ISSN: 2088-8694

- Loss minimization: Reduce resistive losses in distribution to a negligible level by lowering the flow in
reactive power, thence optimizing and improving power-factor.
- Capacity release: This will optimize the use of existing infrastructure by freeing up transmission and
distribution system capacity, enabling increased load-carrying capacity.
- Energy conservation: Save energy by increasing efficiency in the transmission and distribution of
electricity, thereby reducing energy losses.
The allocation of capacitors in a network has to be a very critical analysis due to the characteristics
of load, power factor requirements, and configurations of the system. Advanced optimization algorithms
coupled with simulation tools can be used in the identification of optimum locations for the installation of
capacitors by considering the dynamics of the power systems. Therefore, capacitor allocation is an extremely
important aspect of power system planning and optimization, which fails in improving the general efficiency,
reliability, and performance of the distribution network. The evolution of techniques for capacitor allocation
is presented in Table 1.

Table 1. Evolution in capacitor allocation techniques


Author, year Optimization Objective(s) type Basic principle/ Network
[ref] approaches objective function
El‐Fergany, Differential Line active energy 𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑓 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝑃𝑇, 𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠) 34-bus and 69-bus test radial
2013 [8] evolution and losses minimization distribution system
pattern search
(DE-PS)
Ramadan et Fuzzy-based Voltage profile, power 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 = 𝐶𝑝 × 𝑃𝑇𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝐽 9 and 34 bus feeder
al., 2014 [9] approach loss, and cost 𝑗 = 1 𝐾𝑐 𝑗 𝑄𝑐
Gholami et al., Genetic Power factor 𝑀𝑖𝑛 [𝐶𝐸𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝐶𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝐶𝑐𝑎𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑡𝑜𝑟] 24-bus Network
2015 [10] algorithm (GA) correction, loss
with new coding reduction, and voltage
and operators profile improvement
Sayadi et al., New P-PSO Cost of power losses 𝑀𝑖𝑛[𝐾𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + ∑ 𝐾𝑐𝑖𝑄𝑐𝑖] IEEE 33-bus and 77-bus
2016 [11] algorithm and reduction of distribution network
harmonic distortion
Shaheen and Crow search Reducing the energy 𝑁𝑙 𝑁𝑙 MV distribution networks
El-Sehiemy, algorithm loss, minimizing the 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝐹 = 𝑀𝑖𝑛(𝐸𝑙 ∑ 𝐷𝑙𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝐶𝑐 ∑ 𝑄𝑐 )
2017 [12] loading level for the 𝑖=1 𝑖=1
transformer substation,
and cost
Youssef et al., Salp Swarm Cost of power losses 𝐹1 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝑃𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠) Single line diagram of 69-bus
2018 [13] Algorithm Improving the voltage 𝐹2 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡) and 85-bus radial distribution
(SSA) profile system.
Ivanov et al., A comparison is Active power loss 𝐹 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛[𝑓1(𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠) + 𝑓2(𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑡)] IEEE 33-bus system and on a
2019 [14] made between reduction real 215-bus EDN from
five The bus voltages Romania
metaheuristic
algorithms
Sampangi and Water cycle Reduction of network 𝑀𝑖𝑛(𝑓) = 𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 practical Indian 28-bus, 47-
Thangavelu, algorithm and power loss, voltage bus, and 52-bus and standard
2020 [15] Grey wolf deviation, and 33-bus, 69-bus, and 85-bus
optimizer enhancement of voltage radial distribution networks
stability
Bilal et al., The particle Reducing the active 𝐹𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 𝐶𝑝𝑃𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 IEEE standard networks (34
2021 [16] swarm and reactive power + 𝐶𝑞𝑄𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝐶𝐶𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 and 85 nodes)
optimization losses and the cost
Babanezhad et Mathematical Minimizing the cost of 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 = 𝐶𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠(/𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟) + Networks of 33 bus and 69
al. 2022 [17] Remora losses 𝐶𝑐𝑎𝑝, 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑙(/𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟) + 𝐶𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛(/ bus
Optimization 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟)
Algorithm
(ROA)
Azeredo et al., Bee screening Minimizing power 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑓 = 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑇𝐻𝐷 + The IEEE 39
2023 [18] algorithm. losses 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑓𝑎𝑢𝑙𝑡 and IEEE 57 Bus
Improving the voltage
profile

The use of advanced capacitor allocation techniques, such as dynamic allocation based on system
needs, can help minimize energy losses and improve overall efficiency [19]. Comprehensive simulations and
analyses are often necessary to determine the optimal capacitor configuration, taking into account load
fluctuations, frequency variations, and other system-specific parameters. Capacitor allocation plays a crucial

Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst, Vol. 16, No. 2, June 2025: 710-718
Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst ISSN: 2088-8694  713

role in the design and optimization of electrical and electronic systems, contributing to ensuring reliable and
efficient performance.

2.3. DG allocation
This subsection presents research publications focusing on minimizing losses in distribution
networks through the allocation of distributed generation (DG), dependent on the availability of distributed
resources, particularly for renewable sources [4]. Given the varied definitions of DG in existing literature, it
becomes essential to discuss several aspects for a more precise definition. These include the purpose,
technology, location, DG rating, power delivery area, environmental impact, operation mode, ownership, and
DG penetration [20].
DG can be specifically defined as "electric power generated from demand and supply-side
resources, significantly less than centralized generation, deployable throughout the distribution network to
meet the energy demand of customers supplied by the system." Generally, distributed resources are
connected near the load points or the utility side of the system to minimize the distance of the distribution
network [21].
Each segment of the distribution network is represented as a combination of a resistance in series
with a pure inductance. The radial configuration consisting of two buses forms the distribution network is
presented in Figure 1. The impedance of any given segment "i" within this network is expressed in Figure 1.
The load flow in this type of network is done using a BIBC matrix (bus injection to branch current)
to calculate the currents flowing through all branches of the network. For a busbar to which a load is
connected, the apparent power S is represented by (1).

𝑆𝑖 = 𝑃𝑖 + 𝑗𝑄𝑖 (1)

Where 𝑖 = 1,2,3, … , 𝑛. The equivalent current charge corresponding to the kth iteration is represented by (2).

𝑃𝑖 +𝑗𝑄𝑖
𝐼𝑖𝑘 = 𝐼𝑖𝑟 + 𝑗𝐼𝑖𝑙 = ( ) (2)
𝑉𝑖𝑘

Where 𝑉𝑖𝑘 and 𝐼𝑖𝑘 are the voltage load and current of the busbar for the kth iteration; 𝐼𝑖𝑙 and 𝐼𝑖𝑟 are the
imaginary and real parts of the busbar load; (*) is the imaginary part of the busbar.
The currents at the busbar are determined through the equation, while the currents flowing through
the branches are established by applying Kirchhoff's law to the examined distribution network [22]. To
illustrate the method for calculating the BIBC matrix, a straightforward distribution network is employed as
an example, consisting of 7 busbars and 6 branches, as depicted in Figure 2.

Figure 1. A radial configuration consisting of two buses forms the distribution network

Figure 2. A simple distribution network of 7 busbars and 6 branches

2.4. DSTATCOM allocation


This subsection presents research publications related to minimizing losses in distribution networks
through the allocation of distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM). As capacitor allocation does not
significantly reduce losses, mainly due to the in-phase component of current and its focus on reactive current,
Optimizing distribution system performance: A comprehensive review of … (Ismail Moufid)
714  ISSN: 2088-8694

DSTATCOM becomes essential for loss reduction and improving power quality [23]. DSTATCOM, functioning
as a shunt customer power device in distribution networks, efficiently injects and absorbs reactive power [24].
Generally, DSTATCOM injects current at the point of common coupling in the network, addressing
distribution issues by substantially reducing power loss, enhancing voltage profile (VP), correcting power
factor, and reducing harmonics in distribution systems [25]. Given that the optimal allocation of
DSTATCOM poses a complex combinatorial constrained optimization problem, various methods have been
proposed by researchers to address this optimization challenge, as summarized in Table 2.

Table 2. Evolution in DSTATCOM allocation techniques


Author, year Optimization Objective(s) type Basic principle/objective Network
[ref] approaches function
Hussain and An analytical approach for Maintain the voltage magnitude as 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝐹= 𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 ∗ 0.01 + Single line diagram of a
𝑃′𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠
Subbaramiah, optimal location of 1 p.u. supply the required reactive 33 bus radial
2013 [26] DSTATCOM power for compensation ∑𝑁𝐵
𝑗=1[(𝑉𝑖 − 𝑉𝑚𝑖𝑛) +
2
distribution system
(𝑉𝑖 − 𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑥 2 ]
Taher and Effective biologically Power loss reduction, and 𝑀𝑖𝑛 𝑓 = 𝑅𝐼2 Single line diagram of
Afsari, 2014 inspired algorithm improvement of current and IEEE 33-bus and 69
[27] (Immune Algorithm) voltage profile in distribution bus distribution system
networks
Yuvaraj et al., Harmony search algorithm Minimizing the total network 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑧𝑒(𝐹) = 𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑃𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 Single line diagram of
2015 [28] to find the optimal location power losses IEEE 33-bus
and sizing of Distribution
STATic COMpensator
Gupta and Revised network Energy Saving with improvement 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑧𝑒(𝐹) = Single line diagram of
Kumar, 2016 configuration aims to in voltage profile, reduction in 𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑃𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 + 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 IEEE 69 bus RDS
[29] minimize power loss, power losses
thereby conserving energy
and benefiting the
environment
Yuvaraj et al., Voltage stability index is Minimize the power loss. 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑧𝑒(𝐹) = 𝑚𝑖𝑛 𝑃𝑡𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 Single line diagram of
2017 [30] used to search the optimal select the DSTATCOM size IEEE 69-and 33 bus
placement for installation according to the load changes. system.
of DSTATCOM y using bat
algorithm.
Yuvaraj and The optimal size of DG and Minimize the system total power 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑧𝑒(𝐹) = 𝑚𝑖𝑛(𝛽1) One line diagram of
Ravi, 2018 DSTATCOM are found by losses and enhancing the bus IEEE 136-bus system
[31] using a newly developed voltages.
nature-inspired CSA in the
RDS. The
backward/forward sweep
(BFS) algorithm is used.
Selvaraj and The grey wolf optimizer Minimizing the total power loss 𝐹(𝑥) Single line diagram of
Rajangam, (GWO) algorithm as a and the load‐balancing (LB) index 𝑅
𝑃𝑇.𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 𝐷−𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑡𝑐𝑜𝑚
+ 𝑃𝑇,𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠 IEEE 69-and 33 bus
2019 [32] meta‐heuristic technique is of the radial distribution system = 𝑀𝑖𝑛( ) system.
𝑃𝑇𝐿𝑜𝑠𝑠
applied to solve the 1 𝑛
reconfiguration problem + 𝑀𝑖𝑛 ∑ (𝐿𝐵𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑥 )
𝑛𝑏 𝑗=1
Yuvaraj et al., New methodology based on Minimize the system’s total power 𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑧𝑒(𝐹) = IEEE 33-bus and large
𝐷𝐺
2020 [33] nature-enthused meta- losses and total operating cost of 𝑚𝑖𝑛 (𝛽1∆𝑃𝑇𝐿 + 𝛽2∆𝑂𝐶) 136-bus RDS
heuristic optimization DG and DSTATCOM
algorithm named as whale
optimization algorithm
(WOA)
Zellagui et al., Hybrid optimization The considered objectives that 𝑀𝑂𝐹 Single line diagram of
2021 [34] methods that combine the reflect the technical, economic, and 𝑁𝑏𝑢𝑠 𝑁𝑏𝑢𝑠 practical EDS in Adrar
firefly algorithm (FA) with environmental issues, are active = 𝑀𝑎𝑥 ∑ ∑ (𝐴1. 𝐴𝑃𝐿 𝐿𝑖𝑗 City 205-bus. A, IEEE
various acceleration power loss level (APLL), short 𝑖=1 𝑗=2 33-bus. B, IEEE 69-
coefficients PSO circuit level (SCL), voltage + bus, C, Algerian 205-
deviation level (VDL), net saving 𝐴2𝑉D𝐿𝑗 + 𝐴3𝑆𝐶𝐿𝑖𝑗 + bus
level (NSL), and environmental 𝐴4𝑁𝑆𝐿𝑖𝑗 + 𝐴5𝐸𝑃𝑅𝐿𝐺 )
pollution reduction level (EPRL).
𝑁
Khan et al., Improved bacterial search Minimize power losses and improve Single line diagram of
2022 [35] algorithm for distribution voltage stability and profile 𝐹 = 𝑀𝑖𝑛 ∑ 𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠 IEEE 33 bus system.
network optimization 𝑖=1
Salimon et al., Black widow optimization Minimize power loss while 𝑛𝑏 The IEEE 33-bus and
2023 [36] algorithm the black widow simultaneously evaluating various 𝐹 = ∑|𝐼𝑖 |2 . 𝑟𝑖 69-bus RDNs
optimization algorithm techno-economic parameters such 𝑖
as the voltage profile index (VPI),
voltage stability index (VSI), and
annual cost savings

Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst, Vol. 16, No. 2, June 2025: 710-718
Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst ISSN: 2088-8694  715

It is observed from the literature that most of the researchers have concentrated on individual
techniques previously considering power loss or energy loss minimization as a basic objective function. In
recent years, the trend has been created by several researchers to obtain maximum potential benefits through
simultaneous application of capacitor, DG, and DSTATCOM allocation techniques in the distribution
networks [29], [31]. However, capacitor and DSTATCOM both will provide reactive power support to the
distribution system; hence, simultaneous allocation of capacitor and DSTATCOM is not considered by the
researchers and DNO. Also, it is not an economically viable solution to allocate capacitors. Since capacitor
allocation does not reduce losses appreciably due to the in‐phase component of current, and it deals only with
the reactive current component [37]. However, the trend has been created by several researchers to allocate
DSTATCOM in distribution [37]-[40] network for solving power quality problems, a cuckoo search
algorithm is used in [41] for capacitor allocations in radial distribution networks.

3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION


This article presents an exhaustive examination of existing methodologies encompassing
reconfiguration, capacitor allocation, and DG allocation. Figure 3 presents the loss minimization
methodologies adopted for optimal planning and operation of distribution systems. The methodologies for
addressing these methods have been divided into four categories: i) classical optimization techniques,
ii) analytical methods, iii) meta-heuristic techniques, and iv) hybrid optimization techniques.

Figure 3. Methods for achieving minimal loss for optimal planning and operation of the distribution system

4. CONCLUSION
This article presents a complete survey of state-of-the-art methodologies for the solution of
distribution network reconfiguration, capacitor allocation, distributed generators (DG) allocation, and
distribution static synchronous compensators (DSTATCOM) allocation for loss minimization in distribution
networks. The status and relevant background are identified and reviewed in detail together with the practical
demands. The article draws on research articles spanning the last four decades and synthesizes the
progressive developments in this field. The citations presented herein represent a sampling of the current
technical assessments related to enhancing distribution system performance by achieving loss minimization
and voltage profile enhancement. Since power systems are in a constant state of evolution, surveys on this
topic need periodic updating. The above survey identified various techniques used to solve the problem as
single, multi-objective approaches with different constraints. Following are the inferences drawn from the
various techniques discussed in literature for distribution system loss minimization: i) Capacitor allocation is
more suitable for a high voltage distribution network. This gives a simple reliable technique but having
limited advantages due to the purpose of loss minimization only; ii) DG allocation focuses on integrating
existing small-scale generations, which proves to be highly efficient, particularly for the integration of
isolated small photovoltaic plants or wind farms into the distribution system. However, its implementation
requires effective techniques, and its reliability during installation is comparatively lower; and iii) Because of
the various advantages over the conventional capacitor allocation, DSTATCOM allocation in the distribution
networks has drawn much attention. However, it needs some effective techniques for its implementation,
installation, and control strategy. Considering the above-mentioned benefits, simultaneous approaches are the
best strategy among those methods proposed in the literature in order to improve system performance. In
addition, the installations of both DG and DSTATCOM together in distribution networks have been
attracting attention in distribution networks to achieve higher system benefits. In the upcoming years, the

Optimizing distribution system performance: A comprehensive review of … (Ismail Moufid)


716  ISSN: 2088-8694

simultaneous reconfiguration with DG and DSTATCOM allocation in the distribution network will draw
more attention from distribution network operators as well as from researchers interested in the field.

FUNDING INFORMATION
This research received no external funding.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS STATEMENT


This journal uses the Contributor Roles Taxonomy (CRediT) to recognize individual author
contributions, reduce authorship disputes, and facilitate collaboration.

Name of Author C M So Va Fo I R D O E Vi Su P Fu
Ismail Moufid ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Zineb En-nay ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Soukaina Naciri ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Hassane El Markhi ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

C : Conceptualization I : Investigation Vi : Visualization


M : Methodology R : Resources Su : Supervision
So : Software D : Data Curation P : Project administration
Va : Validation O : Writing - Original Draft Fu : Funding acquisition
Fo : Formal analysis E : Writing - Review & Editing

CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT


The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this paper.

DATA AVAILABILITY
This study is a review article that synthesizes information from previously published research. All
data used in this manuscript are available in the cited references.

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BIOGRAPHIES OF AUTHORS

Ismail Moufid is a Ph.D. student at the Intelligent Systems Georessources and


Renewable Energy Laboratory (SIGER) of the Faculty of Science and Technologies of Sidi
Mohammed Ben Abdallah University. His research interests include the reduction of power
loss in distribution networks, power electronics, motor drives, and renewable energy. Ismail
had a Master's degree in Electronics, Signals and Automated Systems from the Faculty of
Science and Technologies of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University of Fez. He can be
contacted at email: [email protected].

Zineb En-nay received the engineer degree in Electrical Engineering Option


Renewable Energy from the National School of Applied Sciences of Ibn Tofail University,
Kenitra, in 2019. She is currently a Ph.D. student in Electrical Engineering (Intelligent
Systems, Geosources and Renewable Energy laboratory) at the Faculty of Sciences and
Technologies of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University. Her research interests include
the field of power systems, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence. She can be
contacted at email: [email protected].

Soukaina Naciri received the master degree in Electrical Engineering Option


Electronics, Signals, and Automated Systems from the Faculty of Science and Technologies
of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University She is now a Ph.D. student at Intelligent
Systems Georessources and Renewable Energy Laboratory (SIGER) of the Faculty of
Science and Technologies of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah University. Her research
interests include power electronics, motor drives, and renewable energy. She can be
contacted at email: [email protected].

Hassane El Markhi received the engineering degree in Electrical Engineering


from Hassan II University, Casablanca, in 1995. He received his Ph.D. degree in fault
location in electrical power distribution systems and improvement of a grid-integrated
DFIG-based wind turbine system from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, in
2015. He is currently a professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering with the
Faculty of Science and Technology, Fez (Morocco). His main research interests include
smart grid, fault location, and renewable energy systems. He can be contacted at email:
[email protected].

Int J Pow Elec & Dri Syst, Vol. 16, No. 2, June 2025: 710-718

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