Optimal placement and sizing of static synchronous compensators in power systems using improved harmony search algorithm

In this paper, a relatively new optimisation technique, the improved harmony search algorithm (IHS), is used to determine the optimal location and size of static synchronous compensators (STATCOMs) in a transmission network. The problem is decomposed into two subproblems. The first sub-problem is the optimal placement of STATCOM devices using the modal analysis method. The second sub-problem is the optimisation of the load flow by setting STATCOM parameters using the improved harmony search algorithm. A multi-criterion objective function is defined to enhance the voltage stability, improve the voltage profile and minimise power loss while considering the total STATCOM size. The results from a 57-bus test system show that the IHS algorithm produces a lower power loss, better voltage profile and greater voltage stability than the traditional harmony search algorithm and particle swarm optimisation techniques in solving the STATCOM placement and sizing problem.