Abstract
Three different reactive power compensators (RPCs) are typically used with distribution systems to enhance their performance. The RPC includes a shunt capacitor (C), Static Var Compensator (SVC), and Distribution Static Compensator (DSTATCOM). For a small amount of RPC, the capacitors are typically used for their simplicity and low cost of maintenance. On the other hand, the SVC and DSTATCOM are applied for medium and large RPCs. In this work, the new algorithm of the Turbulent Flow Water-based Optimization (TFWO) algorithm is used to identify the type and amount of RPC in order to reduce the total power loss of the system. The Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is used to verify and compare the results obtained from the TFWO algorithms. The TFWO algorithm is more effective and faster than the PSO algorithm. Moreover, the results verify the effectiveness of the TFWO algorithm in power loss reduction, enhancing the voltage profile, and determining the suitable RPC type, size, and site.