Investigating the optimal location of FACTS devices in power system networks with renewable energy sources considering uncertainty

Reactive power flow analysis is an essential feature of power systems management. Controlling the amounts of reactive power flowing in and out of a power system network aids in keeping network voltage within acceptable limits. As the penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) into the conventional electric grid increases, its effect on reactive power must be investigated. Research studies have shown that the uncertainty of RESs in power generation influences the reactive power of a power system network and consequently its overall transmission losses. This influence can be mitigated by installing FACTS devices in the power system network. In this research paper, a case study is presented to determine the best location of Flexible Alternating Current Transmission System (FACTS) devices in a power system network with RESs. The uncertainty of load and wind power generation is modelled using probabilistic scenario-based method. The IEEE 14 bus test network is used in the analysis. The objective function is solved using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The results show that when FACTS devices are strategically positioned in a power system network and uncertainty is considered, they have a significant influence on the overall transmission loss of the network.