Optimal allocation of multi-type FACTS devices using bees algorithm for ATC enhancement in deregulated power system

Abstract

This paper, presents a new methodology for the placement of multi-type FACTS devices in deregulated electricity market to enhance available transfer capability (ATC). The presentation of FACTS technology in power system network may be can effectively enhance system loadability. However, due to their high cost, the proper selection of the number and placement of these devices is required. In the proposed work, a swarm-based optimization technique, known as bees algorithm is used to optimize the various parameters involved in the introductions of FACTS devices in a power system. The parameters taken into considerations are the location of FACTS devices, their type and their corresponding setting. The optimal configuration will be the one that maximize the ATC between the source and sink area while keeping the power system operating within appropriate security limits. Four types of FACTS devices are included, namely: thyristorcontrolled series compensator (TCSC), static VAR compensator (SVC), thyristor-controlled phase shift transformer (TCPST) and unified power flow controller (UPFC). The proposed technique has been tested on IEEE118- bus test systems. A Genetic Algorithms (GA) is prepared for validation purpose. The results obtained are very encouraging and compared with those obtained by GA.