Optimal Sizing and Techno-Economic Analysis of Battery Energy Storage System for Peak Shaving and Voltage Profile Improvement on a Rural Distribution Network
Date
2026Author
Mwene, Job Omambia
Muriithi, Christopher M.
Muisyo, Irene Ndunge
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Distribution networks are increasingly strained by peak load demands and voltage regulation problems. This paper benchmarks Particle Swarm Optimization, Boda-Boda Optimization, and Adaptive Boda-Boda Optimization Algorithm with Fuzzy Logic (ABBOA-Fuzzy) to size and site Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) as a Non-Wires Alternative for rural 11kV feeder support. Baseline analysis of the feeder indicated a peak load of 99.6%, and a voltage drop to 0.936 p.u. The optimization process demonstrated the superiority of the ABBOA-Fuzzy algorithm, which converged faster. The optimized solution guided the selection of a commercially available 400kW/1200kWh BESS which reduced peak demand by 15.5% and raised the minimum voltage to 0.952 p.u. A 15-year techno-economic analysis using the System Advisor Model, accounting for battery degradation confirmed the economic viability with a Net Present Value of $43,643 and an Internal Rate of Return of 15.54%. The study recommends this framework for utility BESS planning.
