Optimal allocation of FACTS devices to enhance total transfer capability using evolutionary programming

Evolutionary programming (EP) is proposed to determine the optimal allocation of FACTS devices for maximizing the total transfer capability (TTC) of power transactions between source and sink areas in deregulated power systems. EP simultaneously searches for FACTS locations, FACTS parameters, real power generation (except slack bus) in source area, real power loads in sink area, and generation bus voltages. Multi-objective optimal power flow (OPF) with FACTS devices, including TTC and penalty functions, is used to evaluate the feasible TTC value within real and reactive power generation limits, voltage limits, line flow 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 an IEEE 30-bus system indicate that optimally placed OPF with FACTS devices by EP could enhance the TTC value far more than OPF without FACTS devices.