This document summarizes research on optimally placing and sizing capacitors and distributed generators in radial distribution systems to minimize losses. Key points:
1) Radial distribution systems are analyzed using a network-topology-based load flow method due to high R/X ratios.
2) A direct search algorithm is used to determine the optimal capacitor sizes, locations, and distributed generator sizes and locations to minimize losses.
3) Case studies on 15-bus, 33-bus, and 69-bus test systems demonstrate the algorithm can reduce losses by over 90% compared to base cases by optimally placing capacitors and distributed generators.