Efficient Integration of Photovoltaic Solar Generators in Monopolar DC Networks through a Convex Mixed-Integer Optimization Model

The problem regarding the optimal siting and sizing of photovoltaic (PV) generation units in electrical distribution networks with monopolar direct current (DC) operation technology was addressed this research by proposing a two-stage convex optimization (TSCO) approach. In first stage, exact mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation relaxed via linear programming, defining nodes where PV must be placed. second power flow associated solved approximating component MINLP model into second-order cone equivalent. main contribution is use two approximations to efficiently solve studied problem, taking advantage models. numerical results DC version IEEE 33-bus grid demonstrate effectiveness proposed approach when compared multiple combinatorial methods. Two evaluations were conducted, confirm efficiency model. evaluation considered without limitations all branches, later compare it different metaheuristic approaches (discrete versions Chu Beasley genetic algorithm, vortex search generalized normal optimizer); simulation included thermal limits model’s optimization. showed that maximum point tracking not regarded as decision-making criterion, expected annual investment operating costs exhibited better performances, i.e., additional reductions about USD 100,000 cases scenarios involving tracking.