Design of ABC algorithm based load frequency controller for hydro-nuclear interconnected power systems with redox flow batteries

This paper proposes an application of redox flow battery (RFB) for the improvement of Load Frequency Control (LFC) of a two-area interconnected hydro-nuclear power system using Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) optimization algorithm. The Redox Flow Battery, which is not aged due to the frequent charging and discharging, has a quick response and outstanding function during overload conditions. In addition to leveling load, the battery is advantageous for secondary control in the power system and maintenance of power quality of distributed power resources. The redox flow batteries can efficiently damp out electromechanical oscillations in the power system because of their efficient storage capacity in addition to the kinetic energy of the generator rotor, which can share the sudden changes in power requirements. The Artificial Bee Colony optimization algorithm, a very simple, robust and population based stochastic optimization algorithm, is used to optimize the parameters of the PI controller. Simulation studies reveal that the transient performance is improved significantly when RFB is considered.