A meta-heuristic, moth inspired algorithm for combined economic and environmental power dispatch

The problem of deciding the contribution of each generator in a power system is complex. Where some generators are more cost effective, others have cleaner operation. Right choice of generators could save thousands of dollars in operating cost or prevent release of several tons of noxious fumes like NO2 and SO2 annually. Rising complexity of modern power systems and special efficiency improvement methods like valve point loading, demand newer means to find this vital balance between cost and emission. This paper aims to find a solution to this problem by the use of an algorithm inspired by the flight pattern of moths. Like a moth drawn to a flame, this algorithm seeks to minimise both cost as well as emission. The standard IEEE 30 bus test system is considered as the control case and the results obtained are compared with other such algorithms to demonstrate the effectiveness of MFO.