Constrained load/frequency control problems in networked multi-area power systems

In this paper, we present a supervisory discrete-time predictive control strategy for load/frequency control problems in networked multi-area power systems subject to coordination constraints. Coordination between the control center and the spatially distributed areas is accomplished via data networks subject to communication latency modeled by time-varying time-delay. The aim here is finding supervising strategies able to reconfigure, whenever necessary in response to unexpected load changes and/or faults, the nominal set-points on frequency and generated power to the generators of each area so that viable evolutions would arise for the overall power system and a new sustainable equilibrium is reached. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the strategy, examples on a four-area power system are presented. (C) 2011 The Franklin Institute. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.