A Stochastic Multi-period Transmission Expansion Planning Using Whale Optimization Algorithm

This chapter introduces a stochastic multi-period transmission expansion planning (SMTEP) model that considers the power system’s uncertainties and reliability constraints. Renewable generation sources (RGSs) are widely used in power systems. RGSs have a stochastic behavior that menaces the power system’s reliability and may result in partial or complete blackouts. The inclusion of N-1 security in SMTEP is also essential to ensure the continuity of electricity supply to loads under the worst conditions. The problem is formulated as a mixed-integer non-linear optimization problem. The whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is applied to solve the SMTEP problem. A reduction technique and an acceleration scheme are incorporated with the WOA to accelerate the convergence to the optimal solution and decrease computation time. The results of testing the WOA on a benchmark system and a realistic network show its efficiency and superiority, compared to other well-established algorithms, in terms of convergence time and quality of solutions. Further, case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the suggested model in improving the power system’s reliability.