Distributed LQR Design for a Class of Large-Scale Multi-Area Power Systems

Load frequency control (LFC) is one of the most challenging problems in multi-area power systems. In this paper, we consider power system formed of distinct control areas with identical dynamics which are interconnected via weak tie-lines. We then formulate a disturbance rejection problem of power-load step variations for the interconnected network system. We follow a top-down method to approximate a centralized linear quadratic regulator (LQR) optimal controller by a distributed scheme. Overall network stability is guaranteed via a stability test applied to a convex combination of Hurwitz matrices, the validity of which leads to stable network operation for a class of network topologies. The efficiency of the proposed distributed load frequency controller is illustrated via simulation studies involving a six-area power system and three interconnection schemes. In the study, apart from the nominal parameters, significant parametric variations have been considered in each area. The obtained results suggest that the proposed approach can be extended to the non-identical case.