Enhanced genetic algorithms for economic dispatch considering special unit characteristics

The fuel cost of a thermal generating unit is generally expressed as a quadratic function of its power generation, but some particular units have different unit characteristics, such as discontinuous cost characteristics, cubic input-output characteristics, etc. To solve the economic dispatch problems considering units having those special input-output characteristics, the techniques of genetic algorithms (GAs) is employed. It has been realised that simple forms of GAs have some drawbacks, which prevent the acceptance of the theoretic performances claimed. The paper proposed enhanced genetic algorithms, which involve engineered-conditioning operator and several advanced techniques enhancing program efficiency and accuracy, such as elite policy, two-point crossover techniques, etc.