Load Frequency Control of Hydro Power Plant Microgrid Integrated with Solar Farms and BESS Using Genetic Algorithms for PID Controller

The growing demand for sustainable and reliable energy systems has sparked significant interest in microgrids as a solution for integrating renewable energy sources. Microgrids offer flexibility, resilience, and efficient management of energy resources. This study investigates the integration of a hydroelectric power plant, a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, and a battery energy storage system (BESS) to design a 5 MW microgrid, specifically targeting voltage and frequency regulation challenges while optimising efficiency and reliability. This paper investigates load frequency control (LFC) for a 5 MW microgrid comprising a hydroelectric power plant, solar photovoltaic (PV) system, and battery energy storage system (BESS). A PID controller, optimised using Genetic Algorithm (GA), is employed to enhance system performance under dynamic conditions. The GA optimisation reduces frequency deviation to ±0.0015 pu, settling time to 6 seconds, and ensures voltage regulation within ±1% under varying load disturbances. The proposed system demonstrates efficient and stable operation, highlighting its potential for rural electrification, industrial power supply, and the integration of renewable energy.