A heuristic to adjust automatic capacitors using parameterization of load

Banks of capacitors (BCs) at distribution systems are used to compensate the reactive energy of the network, reduce electric losses and improve the voltage profile. The planning and operation of BCs includes the determination of ideal allocation of them at the distribution network, defining its type, size and adjustments. Considering that the loads undergo variations during the operation time, fixed decision of input/output of the BCs may not be enough to provide the necessary reactive compensation. Therefore, the main objective of this work is to develop a heuristic to adjust the switching of the automatic BCs. This heuristic uses the results of a Parametric Optimal Power Flow that minimizes the electric losses and controls voltage profile along the feeders of the distribution network. The results are presented using a system of 70 buses.

► We propose a methodology to adjust automatic banks of capacitors.
► The banks of capacitors are installed at feeders of distribution networks.
► It uses a Parametric Optimal Power Flow that minimizes losses and voltage profile.