A novel approach for optimum allocation of Flexible AC Transmission Systems using Harmony Search technique

Recently Flexible Alternating Current Transmission Systems (FACTS) is a well-known term for higher controllability in power systems by means of power electronic devices. FACTS devices can effectively control the load flow, improve the usage of existing system installations by increasing transmission capability, compensate the reactive power, improve the power quality, improve the voltage profile and stability of the power network. However, the location of these devices on a wide area Power system plays a significant role to achieve such benefits. This paper presents the application of Harmony Search optimization technique for finding out the optimal number, the optimal locations and size of Static Compensator (STATCOM) device to achieve all load buses within voltage ranges and minimum power losses in the system. The reactive power needed of the system and the voltage limits for the buses are taken as constraints during the optimization. Simulations are performed on a large scale power system (i.e. Egyptian electrical network-220/500 kV Cairo zone).