Particle Swarm Optimization applied to system restoration

The electrical power system restoration after an incident is a complex process involving decision-making problems of combinatory nature. In this case, the operator support systems play an important role in a performance of this process. This paper introduces a decision support tool based on particle swarm optimization technique (PSO). The technique is based on the change of system functional configuration and consists in the use of the maximization of power demand supplied and minimization of the number switched lines. This technique also avoids the overload of system lines. A case study is introduced.