Multiobjective Optimization of Power Flow Distribution in EPS with RES under Minimum Number of Transformer’s On-Load Tap Changing

Abstract

The incorporation of renewable energy sources (RES) such as wind and solar power plants into traditional power systems offers numerous technical and environmental benefits. However, improper operation of power grids with RES may lead to high operating costs and higher system losses, as well as voltage fluctuations. To solve these problems, in this paper a formulation of the dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) problem has been proposed with the integration of RES in the grid. The maximum allowable number of switching operations in a day for on-load tap-changer (OLTC) of transformers is taken into consideration as practical constraint. For 24 hours, the objective functions were to minimize the total operating cost (including fuel cost and cost of power loss), minimize power loss and the daily number of tap operations for transformer's OLTC. The minimization of the daily number of operations for transformers was taken as the goal to preserve the service life of transformers, reduce maintenance and depreciation. The objectives were minimized by coordination between control variables such as the output power of generators, the voltage of generators, transformer tap changer, and shunt capacitor. The improved practical swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm has been employed successfully to solve DOPF with discrete and continuous decision variables in the electric power system.