Optimal Design of Discrete Output Feedback Control Using Genetic Algorithm for a Multi Area Power System

Abstract. In this paper, a design of an optimal output feedback control for decentralized Load Frequency Controllers (LFC) of a multi-area interconnected power system using Genetic Algorithm (GA), is presented. The original system is decomposed into subsystems (areas). A Local Output Feedback Controller (LOFC) is designed for each subsystem and its relative optimal gain matrix is derived using GA. The proposed approach is implemented on a three-area interconnected power system and could be extended to more areas in different configurations (radial, ring). The system performance is analysed by simulating different disturbances. Effectiveness is shown through a comparative study with the Conventional Integral Control (CIC) for different operating conditions and a wide-range variation in the system parameters with the presence of the turbine Generation Rate Constraints (GRC) nonlinearity.