Robust multivariable predictive based load frequency control considering generation rate constraint

In this paper, a robust multivariable Model based Predictive Control (MPC) is proposed for the solution of load frequency control (LFC) in a multi-area power system. The proposed control scheme is designed to consider multivariable nature of LFC, system uncertainty and generation rate constraint, simultaneously. A constrained MPC is employed to calculate optimal control input including generation rate constraints. Economic allocation of generation is further ensured by modification of the predictive control objective function. To achieve robustness against system uncertainty and variation of parameters, a linear matrix inequality (LMI) based approach is employed. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller, time-based simulations on a three-area power system are performed and the results are then compared with PI controller. The results evaluation reveals that the proposed control strategy offers satisfactory performance in the presence of system constraint and provides robust performance for an extensive range of system uncertainty.

► System uncertainty and GRC of LFC system is considered by multivariable MPC.
► Economic allocation of generation is taken into account in the control cost function.
► The closed loop performance is improved considerably.
► Robust MPC provided smother responses with less oscillations.
► Improving system performance is more prominent in larger uncertainty.