Benefit-Based Optimal Allocation of FACTS: SVC Device for Improvement of Transmission Network Loadability

After deregulation, power transactions are significantly increased and thus it becomes more urgent to improve system transmission loadability (TL). Utilization of flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) can be a better choice to accommodate the requirement instead of building new transmission lines. FACTS devices can enhance system dynamic behavior and system reliability. If they are installed at suitable positions and provide system with sufficient capacities, TL may be largely improved. This issue is playing an increasingly vital role in operation and control for the deregulated markets. The objectives of the optimization problem in the paper involve to maximize the benefit from the future fuel expense with proper investment in the allocation of FACTS devices and to improve TL the most. The solution method proposed is based on the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm involving in the computational procedure of the continuation power flow (PFC). Only static VAR compensator (SVC) is used; however, the installation of SVC and the effectiveness of the solution method can be validated.