Optimal Allocation of Flexible Alternative Current Transmission Systems: An Application of Particle Swarm Optimization

This chapter introduces an optimization problem of sizes (capacities) and locations (connection points) of flexible alternative current transmission systems (FACTS) devices for voltage regulation in electric power distribution systems as an application target of particle swarm optimization (PSO). This study focuses on operations of the distribution systems in consideration of penetration of photovoltaic generation (PV) systems. Massive installation of the PV systems brings unexpected significant impacts on voltage regulating operations of the distribution systems because status of the PV systems normally cannot be monitored or controlled from the distribution systems’ operators. Meanwhile, installation of the FACTS is expected as an effective solution for the issues; however, finding appropriate set of sizes and locations of the FACTS devices becomes a complicated optimization problem. In this chapter, first, a sizing and allocation problem of the FACTS devices is formulated. Next, a PSO-based solution method is proposed and then applied for determining quasi-optimal set of the sizes, and the connection points of the FACTS devices. Finally, the usefulness of the authors’ proposal is verified through numerical simulations and discussions on their results.