Optimal power flow in direct-current power grids via black hole optimization

Abstract

This paper addresses the Optimal Power Flow (OPF) problem in DC power microgrids via a combinatorial optimization technique known as Black Hole Optimization (BHO). Such optimization method allows to solve OPF problems via algorithmic strategies trough a master-slave formulation. In the master stage, the total power generated by each Distributed Generator (DG) is determined by the BHO, while the slave strategy is entrusted with solving the resulting conventional power flow problem via a classical Gauss-Seidel (GS) numerical method. For comparison purposes, this work uses nonlinear optimization methods available in General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) as well as continuous metaheuristic optimization techniques. Two test feeders with 21 and 69 nodes were considered for validating the proposed hybrid BHO-GS optimization method, which enables to demonstrate its applicability, robustness and efficiency compared to conventional approaches. The results of all the simulations were obtained via MATLAB 2017a.