Optimal Power Flow in AC–DC Grids With Discrete Control Devices

Abstract

With the increasing applications of VSC-HVDC technologies in power grids, the importance of incorporating DC grids and converter stations into the optimal power flow (OPF) problem is increasing. The modeling of a converter station involves highly nonlinear operational constraints and integer variables representing the tap settings of LTC transformers. In this paper, an efficient OPF algorithm for hybrid AC–DC grids with discrete control devices is presented. A successive linear approximation method for the power flow equations in both AC and DC grids is introduced. The operational constraints of the converter station are thoroughly investigated. The proposed linearization of the power flow equations facilitates the convexity of the VSC modeling. A fictitious branch is added to the AC grid to handle the highly nonlinear converter losses. The discrete nature of the LTC transformer in the converter station is accurately modeled. An iterative solving algorithm is proposed for the OPF model. The strict satisfaction of the power flow equations is enabled through the application of an AC feasibility recovery process based on the power flow calculation in hybrid AC–DC grids. Case studies demonstrate that the proposed algorithm outperforms several selected commercial solvers.