An approach for loss minimization and capacity savings in residential microgrid networks in Oman

Abstract

In this paper, an approach for end-user-based energy saving and loss reduction technique in residential networks has been proposed. The proposed approach is applied to an Oman case study of community microgrid networks by connecting automatically switched capacitors to improve power factor and analyzed for capacity saving and loss minimization. The proposed approach can reduce the cost of electrical bills in the total community microgrid by minimizing losses and the capacity investment cost saving of all equipments in the transmission and distribution line from the generation to the end user. In addition, this study focuses on the healthy conclusion that average kVA capacity could be saved to an extent of 12.22% and in economic terms, approximately USD 3.68 per hour in the microgrid. This proposed technique can be implemented as a model community project for other similar residential community systems.