A computer model for power system control (Q1820691)

A forward dynamic programming formulation of the optimal commitment of units for economic power generation is proposed, and it is shown how advantage is taken of the characteristics of the formulation as well as the structure of the problem itself to impose limiting conditions which reduce the size and complexity of the solution, while still ensuring that the generating schedules determined are cost-efficient. By employing a number of strategies which control the multiplicity of states, the proposed method eliminates the necessity for large computer storage - a drawback in the early dynamic programming methods. Operating constraints like non-linearities in the cost characteristics of units, deterministic spinning reserve, time-dependent start-up costs are incorporated in the model and operating schedules are produced over a 24-h horizon. Computational experience with the techniques indicates its potentiality for on-line computer implementation.