Maximizing transmission capacity through a minimum set of distributed multi-type FACTS

The Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) devices can help the power system networks to reduce power flows on overloaded lines, resulting in increased system loadability, lower transmission line losses, improved power system stability and security, reduced power production costs, and more secure bus voltage levels. This paper presents a genetic algorithm (GA) based optimization process, for seeking optimal locations and parameters for multi-type FACTS devices in power systems. The optimization process is designed to maximize the power transmitted by the network. Five different FACTS devices are considered: SVC, TCSC, TCVR, TCPAR and UPFC. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed optimization process in determining optimal placement of FACTS devices in several test networks.