An Effective Approach for Optimal Coordination of Directional Overcurrent Relays Based on Artificial Ecosystem Optimizer

In this paper, the artificial ecosystem-based optimization (AEO) algorithm is applied to coordinate directional over current relays (DOCRs). Optimal coordination of DOCRs is non-linear and highly constrained problem but it is important to keep secure and protected power system operation. The AEO algorithm is one of the recent nature-inspired meta-heuristic algorithms. It simulates the flow of energy into an Earth's ecosystem by three living organisms including production, consumption, and decomposition. The AEO is successfully applied to coordinate DOCRs with the aim of minimizing the overall operating time of the relays used in three test systems including 8-bus, 9-bus, and 15-bus systems. The results of the developed algorithm are compared with other well-known algorithms. The simulation results demonstrated the importance and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in finding the optimal coordination of DOCRs and minimizing the overall operating time of the relays.