Constructive metaheuristics applied to transmission expansion planning with security constraints

Abstract

This paper proposes a new methodology for solving the transmission expansion planning problem, considering the "N-1" security criterion. The proposed optimization tool, classified as constructive metaheuristic, is built combining two techniques: a constructive heuristic algorithm and an evolutionary metaheuristic. A linearized DC network model that includes transmission losses is adopted for evaluating the obtained configurations. Network sensitivity indices are used in the constructive process. They are evaluated considering the intact network, "N-0", and also single transmission contingencies established by the "N-1" security criterion. These indices are used to measure the attractiveness and effectiveness of reinforcements to be added or removed during the constructive process. The proposed method resembles the way system planners search for the best transmission expansion configurations. Two networks, a well-known academic system and a configuration of the Brazilian network, are used to test the proposed tool.