Abstract. In order to comprehensively generalize the research status quo, achievements as well as deficiencies on the optimal operation of power system including wind farms, this paper introduced the optimal operation models for power system including wind farms, according to the difference of optimization objective, the models are divided into the single objective model and the multi-objective model. A variety of traditional optimization algorithms and artificial intelligence optimization algorithms common used were summarized, including dynamic programming, Lagrangian relaxation method, genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, ect, the principle, advantages and disadvantages of each algorithm were analyzed in this paper. Finally, some suggestions are given for further studies on the optimal operation of wind power.