Optimal reactive power dispatch involving SMES by Cuckoo search algorithm

In this paper a superconducting magnetic energy storage system (SMES) along with synchronous generators & shunt capacitors are used for optimal reactive power dispatch in case of a standard IEEE 30 bus test system. The use of the SMES has shown excellent improvement of the stability of the system in form of reduced voltage deviation. The total real power loss has been found to be reduced by 36.95% and voltage deviation of load bus is reduced by 9.92% in comparison to the use of the conventional equipment like shunt capacitor. Cuckoo search algorithm for its excellent convergence characteristics is used for the optimization purpose.