Economic power dispatch with non-smooth cost functions using differential evolution

This paper presents the solution of economic dispatch problems that feature non-smooth cost functions by means of the differential evolution (DE) algorithm. This technique is particularly useful for optimization problems with non-convex, discontinuous, and non-differentiable solution spaces. The non-smooth cost functions arise in economic dispatch studies due to valve point loading effects, prohibited operating zones, and fuel switching effects. The proposed DE-based economic dispatch solution methodology was validated and tested using various test systems available in the literature. The results obtained demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method for solving economic dispatch problems with non-smooth cost functions.