Optimal Performance Design of Passive Power Filters Using a Multi-Objective Firefly Algorithm

Harmonic distortion in power systems, primarily caused by nonlinear loads, leads to significant power quality issues such as increased losses, reduced power factor, and equipment malfunctions. To mitigate these effects, passive power filters (PPFs) are widely employed due to their cost-effectiveness and simplicity. This paper presents an optimized design of a single-tuned passive filter (STPF) using the Firefly Algorithm (FFA) and its multi-objective extension, the Multi-Objective Firefly Algorithm (MOFA). The optimization aims to minimize both voltage total harmonic distortion (VTHD) and power loss and to maximize the power factor (PF) while complying with IEEE 519-2014 standards. The study evaluates the proposed method under two different industrial case studies with varying system parameters and harmonic profiles. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed FFA-based optimization outperforms the Mixed Integer Distributed Ant Colony Optimization (MIDACO) method, achieving superior VTHD reduction, power loss minimization, and power factor enhancement. The MOFA approach provides a Pareto-optimal front, offering trade-offs among competing objectives. Comparative analysis confirms the efficiency, robustness, and faster convergence of FFA-based optimization, making it a promising approach for optimal filter design in power systems.