A Modified Salp Swarm Algorithm: An Application for Reactive Power Dispatch Problem

Optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) is a main issue for actual power transfer and network stability. This is why ORPD in power systems has been examined as a key problem. Solving such problems is an optimization problem due to the multitude of solutions. Reactive power control reduces grid losses and improves its voltage level. ORPD in power systems is performed by regulating the generators' voltage, transformer taps changing under load and switched capacitors. In this study, the goal of ORPD in power systems was to recognition rein variable to minimize the target function based on system constraints, reduce power losses, betterment the system's voltage profile and reduction the costs of operation. Control variables in this study were the power generated in power stations, generator terminal voltage size, parallel installed capacitor size and transformer tap size. Due to its unique complexity, this problem was solved by proposing a developed salp swarm algorithm (SSA). The proposed algorithm and method are evaluated on a well-known power system. The findings demonstrated the appropriate efficiency and superiority of this method compared to others.