Solution of the Optimal Power Flow Problem Considering FACTS Devices by Using Lightning Search Algorithm

In this study, the optimal power flow (OPF) problem including flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) devices, ever increasing in the planning and operating of the modern power systems has been addressed. The thyristor-controlled series capacitor and the thyristor-controlled phase shifter are used as FACTS devices. The solution to this problem is proposed by using a new heuristic algorithm known as the lightning search algorithm (LSA) based on the phenomenon of lighting. The LSA method is generalized from the mechanism of step leader propagation. The performance, success and robustness in the solution of this problem of the LSA are evaluated and tested on IEEE test systems, which are the modified IEEE 30-bus and IEEE 57-bus test systems. The multi-objective functions are used in the solution analysis processes of this problem. These objective functions are defined as the minimization of the fuel cost, minimization of the emission and minimization of the active power loss of the test system. The numerical results of the LSA are compared to different methods presented in the recent literature, which are ant lion optimizer, grey wolf optimizer, dragonfly algorithm, moth-flame optimization. The outcomes obtained from simulation study indicate the potential of the LSA method in solving the OPF problem including FACTS devices for operating and planning of the modern power systems.