Abstract: In order to achieve optimal operation of active distribution network (ADN), this paper proposes a method for optimizing the operation of ADN based on improved bat algorithm (IBA). Taking the total expenditure cost of ADN as the optimization objective and fully considering the constraints of system operation, an ADN operation optimization model was constructed. The traditional bat algorithm was improved using two strategies, logistic mapping and Levy flight, which significantly improved the optimization performance of the IBA algorithm. The IBA algorithm was used to solve the constructed model. The results of the case analysis show that the minimum value of the objective function obtained by using the IBA algorithm is 258500 yuan, with corresponding iteration times and convergence time of 31 times and 5.19 s, respectively. All three convergence performance indicators are superior to other optimization algorithms, verifying the superiority of the IBA algorithm in ADN operation optimization.