Optimal Power Flow in Hybrid AC/DC Power Systems
Summary
Optimal power flow in hybrid alternating-current/direct-current (AC/DC) systems addresses the challenge of determining the most efficient operating point for generation, converters and network elements while satisfying physical and operational constraints. Hybrid AC/DC topologies combine traditional AC transmission with high-voltage DC (HVDC) links, enabling long-distance bulk power transfer, interconnection of asynchronous grids and integration of large renewable energy plants. Key challenges in optimal power flow include the nonlinear behaviour of converter interfaces, the multiple control modes of voltage-source converters (VSCs) and line-commutated converters (LCCs), the requirement to enforce n-1 security criteria and the coexistence of discrete decisions such as tap-changer settings and switching statuses. Advances in mathematical programming, Newton-type algorithms and decomposition methods have allowed researchers to incorporate detailed converter models, multi-objective formulations and probabilistic uncertainty considerations. The global deployment of hybrid AC/DC networks supports decarbonisation targets by facilitating offshore wind integration, cross-border interconnections and reduced losses, while also enhancing system resilience and controllability.
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Optimal Power Flow in Hybrid AC/DC Power Systems publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in optimal power flow in hybrid ac/dc power systems across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Hybrid AC/DC Power System: An electrical network combining alternating-current transmission with one or more direct-current links to enhance power transfer, stability and controllability.
Optimal Power Flow (OPF): A mathematical optimisation problem that determines the best operating setpoints of generation and network elements to minimise cost or losses while satisfying engineering constraints.
Voltage-Source Converter (VSC): A flexible power-electronic converter that controls both active and reactive power flows in DC links and can operate under various control modes.
Line-Commutated Converter (LCC): A type of HVDC converter relying on the AC system voltage for commutation, typically using thyristor technology and providing bulk power transfer.
Multi-Terminal HVDC (MT-HVDC): A direct-current network topology in which three or more converter stations are interconnected, enabling meshed DC grids and enhanced redundancy.
References
- General and Unified Model of the Power Flow Problem in Multiterminal AC/DC Networks. IEEE Transactions on Power Systems (2024).
- Alternating Iterative Power-Flow Algorithm for Hybrid AC–DC Power Grids Incorporating LCCs and VSCs. Sustainability (2023).
- Security-Constrained Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow for a Hybrid AC/VSC-MTDC System With Lasso-Based Contingency Filtering. IEEE Access (2019).
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