Optimization of Placement and Sizing of Distributed Generators Using the Cuckoo Search Algorithm to Reduce Power Loss

Abstract

Power losses in electrical distribution systems remain a major challenge that significantly impacts energy efficiency and system reliability. One promising approach to address this issue is the optimal placement and sizing of Distributed Generators (DGs) within the distribution network. This study aims to optimize DG placement and capacity using the Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) and to compare its performance with several other algorithms, namely the Black Squirrel Optimization Algorithm (BSOA), Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA), Teaching Learning Based Optimization - Grey Wolf Optimizer (TLBO-GWO), and GWO. The study was conducted on the IEEE 33-bus test system under two scenarios, with the initial condition of the distribution system exhibiting a power loss of 202.7 kW. In First Case Study, CSA achieved the lowest power loss of 105.31 kW, corresponding to a 48.05% reduction. In contrast, BSOA and TLBO-GWO reduced losses to 116.67 kW (42.44%) and 128.46 kW (36.62%) respectively. In Second Case Study, CSA again demonstrated superior performance with a loss reduction of 56.66%, outperforming SCA (56.33%), BSOA (55.97%), and GWO (55.82%). The optimal DG placement and sizing significantly improved overall system efficiency. The results indicate that CSA possesses strong exploration and convergence capabilities in identifying optimal DG configurations. Its application enables greater reduction in power losses while also enhancing voltage profiles and system stability. These findings suggest that CSA is an effective and competitive method for power distribution optimization involving distributed generation