Optimized utilization of interline power flow controller in an integrated power system

Purpose There is a worldwide need to amplify the usage of renewable energy in the manufacture of electrical energy. Thus, the integrated energy systems (IESs) have become a major part of today's power systems. Wind and solar energies are intermittent power sources and may lead to voltage and power flow instabilities. The purpose of this paper is to use the interline power flow controller (IPFC) for limiting the overloading of the transmission lines and improving the voltage stability of the IES. Design/methodology/approach This paper deals with an integrated system consisting of wind and solar energies and conventional systems. An appropriate position for the IPFC in the IES is proposed based on the disparity line utilization factor. The IPFC is then tuned for decreasing the loss of power and lessening the voltage deviation using the grey wolf algorithm. Findings The method is implemented on a modified IEEE 30-bus system. Results from the study show that the mega volt ampere (MVA) loading of the overloaded lines is reduced for the IES. Also, the voltage stability and the voltage profile of the system are improved to a major extent. The real and reactive power loss of the system is also brought down. Originality/value The use of renewable energy sources is a need of the present world to overcome environmental problems. This research focuses on the use of flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) devices with renewable sources incorporated in the power system. Very limited research has been done in this field. The IPFC, which is one of the most advanced FACTS device, is used for the study.