A specification of neural network applications in the load forecasting problem

This paper investigates the effectiveness of the artificial neural network (ANN) approach to short term load forecasting in electrical power systems. Using examples, the learning process and capabilities of a neural network in the prediction of peak load of the day are demonstrated. Different data normalizing approaches and input patterns are employed to exploit the correlation between historical load and temperatures and expected load patterns. A number of ANN´s are included with emphasis given to their practical implementation for electrical power system control and planning purposes. The networks have been trained on actual power utility load data using a backpropagation algorithm. The prospects for applying a combined solution using artificial neural networks and expert systems, called the expert network are also discussed. Consideration is given to expert networks as a more complete solution to the forecasting problem which neither system alone can provide