Optimal allocation of distributed generation with reconfiguration in electric distribution systems

•The distributed generation allocation with reconfiguration of distribution systems.•The objective is to minimize the system energy loss.•The proposed approach uses a heuristic algorithm based on sensitivity indexes.•The method considers the demand variation.•The construction of a new branch is done for connecting a distributed generator.

This work presents a methodology for the optimal distributed generation allocation associated with the optimal reconfiguration in radial distribution networks to minimize energy losses. The proposed methodology comprises a step by step heuristic algorithm based on sensitivity indexes. The index for the distributed generation allocation is calculated from the conventional power flow solution. The proposed algorithm considers the demand variation through the system load curves as well as the options to build a new branch for connecting a distributed generator to a busbar of the network. This algorithm is applied to three systems of the literature, including a practical distribution network. The results show that the optimal distributed generation allocation with the reconfiguration provides lower energy losses proving the effectiveness of this approach.