Optimal Allocation of Facts Devices: Classical Versus Metaheuristc Approaches

The application of optimization techniques to allocate and size FACTS devices in a power system is still under study. Currently, there is no widely accepted method since many researchers claim their methods to be better than others. This paper compares the effectiveness of classical and metaheuristic optimization approaches in a simple hut realistic case study of optimal allocation of FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission System) devices, considering steady state and economic criteria, Concepts and details about the optimization process that tend to be overlooked in the literature are discussed together with some considerations about statistical analyses in the case of metaheuristic approaches.