International Journal of Advances in Electrical Engineering
2025, Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part A
Optimal power flow and voltage control in smart grids with high penetration of renewable energy sources
Author(s): Tawanda M Chikowore and Nyasha T Mutenha
Abstract: The rapid integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind into modern power networks poses new challenges in ensuring system stability, reliability, and economic efficiency. Traditional optimal power flow (OPF) models often fail to accommodate the intermittent and uncertain nature of renewable generation, resulting in voltage fluctuations, power losses, and renewable curtailment. This research investigates the combined application of optimal power flow and adaptive voltage control (AVC) in a smart grid environment with varying levels of renewable energy penetration. Using a simulated IEEE 33-bus test feeder, multiple scenarios were analyzed under renewable shares of 20%, 40%, and 60%, comparing uncontrolled operation with integrated OPF+AVC strategies. The study employed stochastic modeling, convex relaxation methods, and decentralized control to address the nonlinear and uncertain dynamics of distributed generation. Results demonstrated that OPF+AVC consistently reduced real power losses, improved voltage profiles, minimized the percentage of buses violating permissible limits, and significantly enhanced renewable utilization while reducing curtailment. Statistical analyses confirmed the robustness of these improvements across penetration levels, with large effect sizes validating the practical impact of the proposed framework. The findings affirm that combining OPF with adaptive voltage control [DEL] not only strengthens technical performance but also supports strengthens technical performance while supporting higher clean energy integration without compromising grid security. [DEL]Practical recommendations emphasize. The study recommends the importance of deploying advanced monitoring infrastructure, adopting decentralized optimization frameworks, integrating distributed storage systems, and evolving regulatory incentives to promote resilient and sustainable smart grids. This research thus contributes a robust and scalable solution for enabling future-ready energy systems that balance technical stability, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
Pages: 41-45 | Views: 469 | Downloads: 156
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How to cite this article:
Tawanda M Chikowore, Nyasha T Mutenha. Optimal power flow and voltage control in smart grids with high penetration of renewable energy sources. Int J Adv Electr Eng 2025;6(2):41-45.
