A genetic algorithm based approach for improvement in voltage profile and real power loss minimization

A genetic algorithm (GA) based approach to the optimization of reactive power and voltage profile is presented in this paper. The technical problem is defined as minimization of real power losses by controlling generator terminal voltages, transformer tap positions, and reactors and capacitors as switchable reactive power sources. Constraints such as voltage limits and generator reactive power limits are included in the formulation by using; penalty functions. One drawback of the conventional GA approach is that it can be time intensive. The micro GA was proposed as a more time efficient alternative. The feasibility and the effectiveness of both approaches applied to the problem of reactive power control and voltage profile correction was verified on a 110/25/10 kV municipal power system, represented on an operator training simulator in all physical and operational detail.