Optimal Location and Parameter Setting of TCSC by Both Genetic Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization

Flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) devices are multi-functional control devices which can be used to effectively control the load flow distribution and the power transfer capability, to reduce active power losses, to improve stabilities of the power network, to decrease the cost of power production and to fulfill the other control requirements by controlling the power flow in the network. However to what extent the performance of FACTS devices can be brought out highly depends upon the location and the parameters of the FACTS devices. In this paper, two techniques, a genetic algorithm (GA) technique and a particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique are used to solve this problem. The present research of the paper aims to select the optimal location and the optimal parameter settings of thyristor controlled series capacitor (TCSC) so as to minimize the active power losses in the power network. To show the validity of the proposed techniques, simulations are carried out on several power systems, a three-bus power system, a five-bus power system, and an IEEE-14 bus power system. All the simulations show very encouraging results. The results are presented in the paper together with appropriate discussion.