Swarm Intelligence-Based Reactive Power Constrained Generator and Load Scheduling in Smart Grid with Renewable Energy Sources

Abstract

AbstractThis paper presents an effective methodology and algorithm to optimal schedule of the generators and load dispatch centres for economic integration of renewable energy sources adhering reactive power constraints of the network. The algorithm proposes optimal utilization of all the resources available in the smart grid and considers meticulously the important aspects of power system like voltage profile improvement and the power loss to develop an efficient optimal schedule for both generators and load dispatch centres. The methodology proposes the development of suitable indices which is helpful in monitoring and maintaining the system performance even in the worst possible contingency. For proper management of voltage profile in smart grid, the algorithm within the methodology identifies the weak generators and the load dispatch centres (LDCs) causing problems and alters their generation and active and reactive load schedule for desired operating conditions. It is also of great concern that how the intermittent energy sources will be scheduled with the available thermal power plants. The developed methodology maximises the conversion of renewable power into active power so that those sources are competent enough with the thermal power plants at their availability. The proposed algorithm also sheds the peak load demand in order to attain an optimal generation schedule of these sources. Simulations were carried out in the updated IEEE 30 bus system, and the results were found to be quite encouraging.KeywordsReactive power constraintsSmart gridLoad dispatch centresIntermittent energy sourcesLoad curtailment