Mitigation of Fuel Cost in Thermal Generators Using Puzzle Optimization Algorithm

POA, a puzzle optimization algorithm, is proposed to tackle the economically load allocation problem i.e economic load dispatch (ELD) of thermal power plant. Here nonlinear constraints like loading effect of turbine valve, ramp rate boundaries, restricted zone etc. can be addressed using the proposed methodology. ELD's goal is to calculate the optimal power generation of the units to meet load demand while minimizing overall generation costs and meeting various operational constraints. By incorporating this algorithm on several test systems, superiority of proposed algorithm has been established. The advantage of the proposed algorithms over other current strategies is demonstrated.