New optimization techniques for power system generation scheduling

Abstract

Generation scheduling in restructured electric power systems is critical to maintain the stability and security of a power system and economical operation of the electricity market. However, new generation scheduling problems (GSPs) are emerging under critical or new circumstances, such as generator starting sequence and black-start (BS) generator installation problems in power system restoration (PSR), and generation operational planning considering carbon dioxide (CO2) emission regulation. This dissertation proposes new optimization techniques to investigate these new GSPs that do not fall into the traditional categories. Resilience and efficient recovery are critical and desirable features for electric power systems. Smart grid technologies are expected to enable a grid to be restored from major outages efficiently and safely. As a result, power system restoration is increasingly important for system planning and operation. In this dissertation, the optimal generator start-up strategy is developed to provide the starting sequence of all BS or non-black-start (NBS) generating units to maximize the overall system generation capability. Then, based on the developed method to estimate the total restoration time and system generation capability, the optimal installation strategy of blackstart capabilities is proposed for system planners to develop the restoration plan and achieve an efficient restoration process. Therefore, a new decision support tool for system restoration has been developed to assist system restoration planners and operators to restore generation and transmission systems in an on-line environment. This tool is able to accommodate rapidly changing system conditions in order to avoid catastrophic outages.