Expert System for Budget Preparation and Optimal Operation of an Interconnected Power Utility

by Jovan Grahovac, Univ. of Manitoba, Canada,
Slobodan P. Simonovic, Univ. of Manitoba, Canada,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Optimizing the Resources for Water Management

Abstract:

Manitoba Hydro operates a complex system of 13 reservoirs, 2 thermal and 13 hydro generating stations, and 9 interconnections to other neighbouring power utilities. The Energy Management and Maintenance Analysis computer program, known as EMMA, optimizes planned operations of the system for a specified stream flow scenario and within a specified time horizon, conveniently divided into time steps. The use of EMMA may be well suited for development of an expert system that would try to capture and formulate as much as possible of the diverse expertise involved in it. After a number of interviews three different contexts in which EMMA can be used were recognized: (1) preparation of annual budget; (2) preparation of weekly schedules for releases, thermal and hydro power generation, and imports and exports of energy; and (3) long term planning. The structure of the envisioned expert system for the full support in all the contexts of EMMA use enables step-by-step introduction to linear programming and EMMA followed by comprehensive advice and guide-lines on what runs to perform, and what data to use. The option to actually create an input data set as a product of the expert system consultation is also included. Additional aspects of the subject are discussed.

Subject Headings: Hydro power | Expert systems | Power plants | Thermal power | Electric power | Budgets | Utilities

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