In allusion to the optimal allocation of fault current limiter (FCL) in whole power grids, a multi-objective optimization configuration method based on improved niche genetic algorithm with preselection mechanism is proposed. Nodes with short-circuit currents exceeding standard and branches where FCL could be triggered reliably are determined through system short-circuit current calculation. By analyzing the influence of FCL installation on system impedance matrix, the sensitivity method based on the branch impedance change rate is used to narrow the search space. Then using the improved niche genetic algorithm with preselection mechanism to optimize the calculation to realize the optimal configuration of the number, the impedance value and the location of fault current limiters. Finally, simulation results of the New England 39-node system verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.

fault current limiter (FCL),optimal configuration,sensitivity,improved niche genetic algorithm