Coordinated Optimization at a Hydro Generating Plant by Software Agents

The architecture is developed for incorporating a software agent into the existing control system of a river-based hydro generating plant. The software agent will utilize a rule-based system for ease of integration. Optimization for increased power production is presented, initially for a single generating unit. An enhancement to facilitate the constraints of river level and flow by an external user as well as the goals of corporate dispatching is then developed through the existing SCADA system. Finally, expansion to coordinate multiple hydro units at a single location is presented.