Power flows and voltage control in electric systems by traditional and innovative devices

The paper deals with the control of power flows and voltages in electric power systems, in the presence of branch overloads and a poor voltage profile. The possible compensation tools-series devices (such as phase shifters or FACTS) or shunt devices (such as the traditional capacitors or SVCs)-are examined in order to obtain feasible operation points also following severe contingencies. Using optimisation techniques, the optimal location and size of suitable compensation are calculated considering the possibility of making use of redispatch to reduce the total operation costs. The behaviour of the proposed procedures is shown on some test networks.