Optimal STATCOM siting and sizing in EHV networks using an optimization algorithm

This paper examines enhancing the voltage profile and decreasing reactive power loss through optimal positioning and sizing of Static Synchronous Compensators (STATCOMs). A detailed steady-state STATCOM model is developed and joint with Newton-Raphson load flow analysis by a virtual representation, providing higher accuracy in simulating reactive power exchange and voltage control. The Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) is used to find the most effective STATCOM sites and ratings for both the IEEE 30-bus test system and the Iraqi 400 kV transmission network, while the results are compared with Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) on the IEEE system. For the Iraqi network, seasonal simulations under different load scenarios, especially during Summer months, show the strength of this approach. The results reveal significant improvements in voltage stability margins, a marked reduction in reactive power losses, and more efficient use of compensating power. The proposed method is characterized by computational efficiency, adaptability to varied operating conditions, and contributes to the reliability of smart grids and reactive power planning. Also, the contingency analysis points out the ability of STATCOM devices to lessen the risks of voltage collapse during line outages.