Differential search algorithm for solving multi-objective optimal power flow problem

• A new method is proposed for solving optimal power flow problem.
• Overcoming multi-objective functions by using DS algorithm.
• Optimizing the objectives in better manner compared to results reported.
• Successful optimization of IEEE test power systems.

In this paper, a simple and efficient nature inspired search method based on differential search algorithm (DSA) has been presented and used for optimal power flow (OPF) problem in power systems. By using the proposed DSA method, the power system parameters such as real power generations, bus voltages, load tap changer ratios and shunt capacitance values are optimized for the certain objective functions. Different types of single-objective and multi-objective functions on IEEE 9-bus, IEEE 30-bus and IEEE 57-bus power systems are used to test and verify the efficiency of the proposed DSA method. By comparing with several optimization methods, the results obtained by using the proposed DSA method are presented in detail. The results achieved in this work illustrate that the DSA method can successfully be used to solve the non-linear and non-convex problems related to power systems.