Particle swarm optimization for OPF with consideration of FACTS devices

This paper presents a particle swarm optimization (PSO) method approach to solve the optimal power flow (OPF) in power systems incorporated with flexible ac transmission system (FACTS). The above approach integrates the power flow control needs into the OPF problem to fully utilize the characteristics of FACTS devices. A versatile FACTS device, UPFC (Unified Power Flow Controller), is considered. In the solution process, PSO coupled with full AC power flow, selects the best regulation to minimize the total cost and keep the power flows within their security limits. The optimization process with PSO is presented with case study examples using IEEE modified 14-bus system to demonstrate its applicability. The results have been compared with genetic algorithm (GA) to show the feasibility and the potential of this approach.