Rigorous assessment of uncertainties associated with
capacitor installation in distribution systems is the aim of the
present paper. Interval mathematics provides a powerful tool for
modeling uncertainties. To account for such uncertainties, a
heuristic method coupled with interval mathematics is developed
with the aim of maximizing a cost saving function. The effects of
uncertain inputs within the proposed model are examined for
various assumed levels of overall uncertainties. To assess the
relative contribution of each uncertain input, an interval
sensitivity analysis is carried out. While catering for
uncertainties, the proposed method offers utilities with
alternatives for selecting the standard capacitor sizes to be used
and the associated costs to be saved. This should enable utilities
to make informed decisions regarding installing capacitors for
reactive power compensation in their distribution systems. A
procedure is devised in order to produce sharp bounds of the
interval outcomes. Successful implementation of the proposed
method is described using a nine- bus radial distribution system.
Index Terms reactive power compensation, uncertainty,
distribution systems, interval mathematics.