Determining optimal location and size of capacitors in radial distribution networks using moth swarm algorithm

In this study, the problem of optimal capacitor location and size determination (OCLSD) in radial distribution networks for reducing losses is unraveled by moth swarm algorithm (MSA). MSA is one of the most powerful meta-heuristic algorithm that is taken from the inspiration of the food source finding behavior of moths. Four study cases of installing different numbers of capacitors in the 15-bus radial distribution test system including two, three, four and five capacitors areemployed to run the applied MSA for an investigation of behavior and assessment of performances. Power loss and the improvement of voltage profile obtained by MSA are compared with those fromother methods. As a result, it can be concluded that MSA can give a good truthful and effective solution method for OCLSD problem.