Genetic algorithm solution to optimal sizing problem of small autonomous hybrid power systems

Abstract

The optimal sizing of a small autonomous hybrid power system can be a very challenging task, due to the large number of design settings and the uncertainty in key parameters. This problem belongs to the category of combinatorial optimization, and its solution based on the traditional method of exhaustive enumeration can be proved extremely time-consuming. This paper proposes a binary genetic algorithm in order to solve the optimal sizing problem. Genetic algorithms are popular optimization metaheuristic techniques based on the principles of genetics and natural selection and evolution, and can be applied to discrete or continuous solution space problems. The obtained results prove the performance of the proposed methodology in terms of solution quality and computational time. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2010.