Optimizing power network expansion with pumped hydro energy storage using a multi-objective enhanced spider wasp optimizer approach

Integrating energy storage systems, particularly pumped hydro energy storage (PHES), is crucial for enhancing grid reliability and ensuring a balanced supply and demand. This study explores the impact of PHES integration on power network expansion planning (PNEP). Four PHES technologies are analyzed, including those proposed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), and the Swan Lake case, to assess their economic impact on network expansion strategies. The analysis incorporates planned infrastructure components such as renewable energy sources, transmission lines and Thyristor-controlled series compensators. The problem is framed as a comprehensive multi-objective optimization model designed to minimize the cost of network expansion while maximizing the benefits of integrating various PHES technologies. The Enhanced Spider Wasp Optimizer (ESWO) is suggested as the solution to this optimization challenge. The ESWO employs a variable reduction technique to simplify the problem complexity and improve performance. Simulations conducted on the Garver network and the IEEE 24-bus system indicate that the BPA technology significantly facilitates power network expansion. In the Garver network, the BPA case achieves a cost reduction ranging from 1.23 to 24.84% compared to other technologies. For the IEEE 24-bus system, BPA’s cost reduction is 3.37% compared to EPRI and 5.56% compared to EIA. The results also highlight the ESWO algorithm’s efficiency in managing the complexities of the PNEP problem with integrated energy storage considerations.