Distributed energy procurement with renewable energy sources in a radial distribution system

The integration of renewable-based distributed generation (DG) in distribution systems can modernize the grid, delivering cleaner, cost-effective, and resilient power while deferring expensive upgrades. This study explores renewable DG integration in a 51-bus radial system to reduce energy procurement costs and emissions while improving voltage and power loss profiles. Optimal DG siting and sizing are achieved using a voltage stability index (VSI) and enhanced particle swarm optimization (PSO). A novel energy coverage ratio (ECR) index ensures efficient DG selection. Additionally, levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and solar-based time-of-use (ToU) pricing factors are calculated for DG energy pricing. The energy procurement problem is solved for four cases under two scenarios using an alternating current optimal power flow (ACOPF) method with MATLAB-based MATPOWER. Results show a 2.41 % cost reduction, 4.77% emission abatement, and 10.49 % energy loss reduction when 49.52 % of the annual renewable DG generation is procured.