Optimal Placement of Multi-Type FACTS Devices for Total Transfer Capability Enhancement Using Hybrid Evolutionary Algorithm

In this article, a new hybrid evolutionary algorithm (HEA) is proposed to determine the optimal placement of multi-type FACTS devices for simultaneously maximizing the total transfer capability (TTC) and minimizing system real power losses of power transfers between different control areas. Multi-objective optimal power flow (OPF) with FACTS devices including TTC, system real power loss and penalty functions is used to evaluate the feasible TTC value without violating system constraints. Test results on the modified IEEE 30- and 118-bus systems indicate that optimally placed OPF with FACTS devices by the HEA could enhance the TTC value far more than other metaheuristic methods, leading to an efficient utilization of the existing transmission system.