Genetic based algorithm for security constrained power system economic dispatch

Genetic algorithms are relatively new, however they represent a powerful technique based on biological concepts and are very suitable for solving optimization problems. One such optimization problem is power system security with consideration of economic dispatch. This paper presents a new approach based on constrained genetic algorithms to solve such optimization problems. The operation of power systems demands a high degree of security in order to keep the system operating satisfactorily when subjected to disturbances, while at the same time it is required to take economic aspects into account. A pattern recognition technique is used first to assess dynamic security. :Linear classifiers that determine the stability of electric power systems are presented and added to other system stability and operational constraints. The problem is formulated as a constrained optimization problem in a way that ensures a secure and economic system of operation. A genetic algorithm is then used to solve the formulated optimization problem. The method is tested using two different test systems and the results obtained show that the it is very useful for solving such problems. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.