Power system adequacy: An efficient procedure based on genetic algorithms

The paper presents a methodology which can be used to improve the static adequacy of high voltage (HV) transmission systems under contingency. The most suitable corrective actions for bringing the power system back to acceptable operation conditions are identified by means of a power system management software. The proposed procedure combines a micro genetic algorithm (muGA) optimization procedure with a load-flow program. The foreseen control actions consist in change of network configuration, generation re-dispatching, transformer tap setting, insertion and/or regulation (if variable) of shunt reactor and capacitor banks, load shedding. Several case studies, including an application to the Italian EHV/HV transmission grid are presented and discussed in order to evaluate its possible use by a Transmission System Operator (TSO).