Soptimum Operation of a Hydrothermal System

Variational methods are used to develop co-ordination equations for use in the digital computer solution of the optimum operation of a hydrothermal system with series plants, multiple chains of plants, and intermediate reservoirs. These techniques have been applied in a program which integrates the hydroelectric and steam resources of the Southern California Edison Company for up to a week's period. The output consists of hourly plant loadings which will provide operation at minimum fuel cost.