Performance Evaluation of FACTS Placement Methods for Available Transfer Capability Enhancement in a Deregulated Power Networks

This study investigates the performance of FACTS device based on different methods of placements for available transfer capability enhancement (ATC). Total real power loss, real power performance index, real power loss sensitivity with respect to line reactance, power transfer distribution factor (PTDF), line thermal limitation, available transfer capability (ATC) value, and least bus voltage magnitude are the placement methods considered. Each of these methods is used independently for location of Thyristor Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC) device for ATC enhancement. The study has been conducted on standard IEEE 30 bus test systems for comparison. The enhanced ATC values, bus voltage magnitudes and real power loss are then used in assessment of performance of TCSC with respect to locations. Disparities in enhancement ranges between 2% and 85% were achieved while real power loss minimization of up to 25% was obtained based on different placement methods.