Optimization of diverse energy sources unit commitment in a real time environment

In the early 1980s, diversification in energy sources, reduction in the price differential between gas and oil, and area security constraints made the process of selecting the most economical energy mix at Florida Power & Light (FPL) Co. too complex for the operator to evaluate using the standard unit commitment program. This prompted FPL to develop an extensive unit commitment program that accounts for and optimizes external power purchases and gas-oil allocation-schedules, while accounting for area security constraints (transmission and generation), gas transmission constraints, FPL unit availability, and other operating constraints. FPL´s unit availability, and other operating constraints. FPL´s experience with the program in an operating environment is recounted. A description of the enhancements and the reasons for them is given, and an economic evaluation of the extensive unit commitment program is presented.<>