Application of Modified Bacterial Foraging Optimization algorithm for optimal placement and sizing of Distributed Generation

•A new approach in (Bacterial Foraging Optimization) BFO algorithm is proposed.•It is named as Modified Bacterial Foraging Optimization (MBFO) algorithm.•It is tested in RDS, in the presence of Distributed Generation (DG) unit.•Objective of this work is to reduce the total real power loss.•The test results obtained from MBFO are better than BFO. In this paper, a new approach in Bacterial Foraging Optimization algorithm is proposed to reduce the total power loss and to improve the voltage profile of the radial distribution systems, in the presence of Distributed Generation unit. The proposed method aims to modify the performance of the Bacterial Foraging Optimization algorithm. The test results obtained from Modified Bacterial Foraging Optimization algorithm are also compared and found to be better and in close agreement with the Bacterial Foraging Optimization algorithm. The achievability and convenience of the optimization methods proposed have been demonstrated on 12-bus, 34-bus, and 69-bus radial distribution system consisting of 11, 33, and 68 sections, respectively. MATLAB, Version 7.10 software is used for simulation.