Optimal placement of multi-type FACTS devices using hybrid evolutionary algorithm

Abstract

In this paper, a new hybrid evolutionary algorithm (HEA) based on evolutionary programming (EP), tabu search (TS), and simulated annealing (SA) is proposed to determine the optimal placement of multi-type flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices to simultaneously maximize the total transfer capability (TTC) and minimize the system real power loss of power transfers in deregulated power systems. Multi-objective optimal power flow (OPF) with FACTS devices including TTC, power loss, and penalty functions is used to evaluate the feasible maximum TTC value and minimum power loss within real and reactive power generation limits, thermal limits, voltage limits, stability limits, and FACTS devices operation limits. Four types of FACTS devices are included: thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC), thyristor-controlled phase shifter (TCPS), unified power flow controller (UPFC), and static var compensator (SVC). Test results on the modified IEEE 30-bus system indicate that optimally placed OPF with FACTS by the HEA approach could enhance TTC far more than those from EP, TS, hybrid TS/SA, and improved EP (IEP) algorithms, leading to much efficient utilization of the existing transmission system.