Fractional‐order PID and internal model control‐based dual‐loop load frequency control using teaching–learning optimization

Abstract

AbstractA load frequency controller is essential to counter load disturbances and minimize unscheduled power flow between interlinked areas of a power system. Hence, this paper proposes a fractional‐order proportional‐integral derivative (FOPID)‐based dual‐loop control approach for load frequency control of multi‐area nonreheated thermal power systems (NRTPS) using teaching–learning optimization (TLO). A stability equation‐based predictive model is used with internal model control in the internal loop of the proposed approach, whereas the external loop contains TLO‐based FOPID controller. The proposed method is tested on two‐area and three‐area NRTPSs under various operating conditions. It is validated from the simulation results that the proposed approach improves the system response substantially compared to the well‐known existing techniques. The robustness of the proposed method is also demonstrated by performing sensitivity analysis with parametric uncertainties, random load disturbances, generation rate constraints, and governor dead zone.