ABSTRACT This research proposes a hybrid SCSO-QNN method for designing a FOPID controller in a three-area power system to regulate load frequency. The proposed hybrid approach combines quantum neural networks with sand cat swarm optimization, and it is commonly named as the SCSO-QNN method. The proposed method’s primary goal is to overcome load disturbances and attain the intended output of the interconnected system. The SCSO generates controller parameters tuned by the FOPID controller, providing a significant improvement in performance, while the QNN is employed to forecast the optimal control signal of the converter. Reducing steady-state errors and improving system stability are areas where the FOPID performs better than a traditional integer-order PID controller. Moreover, SCSO-QNN optimization technique exhibits excellent convergence properties, resulting in improved control performance. The proposed method ensures system frequency control by controlling frequency deviation and power fluctuations in the connect line during load disturbances. The proposed method is executed on the MATLAB platform and contrasted with current techniques. The proposed technique outperforms all current techniques, including ABC-FOPID, Genetic Algorithm, and Artificial Bee Colony PID. The proposed method Area control error is 1.8%, which is less than other existing methods.