Application of IDABC and DABC approaches for TNEP problem considering the loss and uncertainty in load growth

The main goal of Transmission Network Expansion Planning (TNEP) is determination of the number, time and location of new lines to be added to transmission network. Up to now, different methods have been used to solve the static TNEP (STNEP). In most of them, this problem is implemented regardless of power loss and the uncertainty in the load demand. With respect to the importance of these two parameters (loss and uncertainty) and their key role in an effective and precise planning, the evaluation and solution of STNEP using more efficient methods can be very useful. Hence, in this paper, a new method named Improved Discrete Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm (IDABC) is employed for the solution of STNEP problem considering simultaneously the loss and uncertainty in load demand. Finally, the proposed approach is applied to the real transmission network of Azerbaijan Regional Electrical Company located in northwest of Iran. Comparison of the results obtained from the proposed method with those of Discrete Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm (DABC) approach verifies the effectiveness and accuracy of the method in STNEP problem.