Abstract—In recent years, the growing demand for reliable, sustainable energy in Afghanistan, particularly in urban areas such as Mazar-e-Sharif, has highlighted the need to improve power distribution network performance. This study proposes a hybrid framework for voltage and reactive power control by optimally allocating Photovoltaic (PV) systems in the 117-bus Mazar-e-Sharif distribution network. Using the Genetic Algorithm and DIgSILENT PowerFactory, the optimal PV location (Bus 12) and capacity (7.22 MW) were determined. Results show a 20.69% reduction in active power losses (from 4.73 MW to 3.75 MW), an 84.78% reduction in reactive losses (from 1.84 Mvar to 0.28 Mvar), and a minimum voltage improvement from 0.916 p.u. to 0.965 p.u. outperform conventional Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) methods without reactive power control and provides a practical solution for enhancing grid resilience in developing regions.

Keywords—optimal allocation, Mazar-e-Sharif distribution network, Photovoltaic system, power quality, voltage and reactive power control

Cite: Abdul Farooq Bikzada, Saeid Esmaeili, Sina Shakeri, "Voltage and Reactive Power Control in Distribution Networks Based on the Optimal Allocation of Photovoltaic Systems: Case Study Mazar-e-Sharif Distribution Network," International Journal of Smart Grid and Clean Energy, Vol. 14, No. 2, pp. 25-39, 2025. doi: 10.12720/sgce.14.2.25-39

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