Reactive power optimization using GSA

Reactive power flow in a power system is to be optimized by minimizing the real power loss and it is essential for maintaining the voltage stability of the system. The control variables such as magnitude of generator bus voltage, transformer tap settings and shunt capacitors can optimize the reactive power flow. This paper uses the nature inspired gravitational search algorithm (GSA) to solve a multi objective and multi constrained optimal reactive power flow problem in power systems. The performance of the standard IEEE 30 bus test system is tested and the results prove the effectiveness of this algorithm. The results show best among other algorithms and found to be suitable for power system operation optimization problems.