Metodologia para previsão de carga de curtíssimo prazo considerando variáveis climáticas e auxiliando na programação de despacho de pequenas centrais hidrelétricas

Abstract

The electrical charge forecast is an activity of great importance in the Electricity Sector, considering that most studies of electrical systems planning and operation require a good estimative of the charge to be fulfilled. In books, there are various methodologies to have the electrical charge projection in different planning horizons, but limited to medium and large electrical systems. Furthermore, there are only a few demand projection proposals in the very short-term horizon, especially for small Electricity Sector companies. The aim of this paper is to present an innovative methodology in order to have the charge forecast, in a very short-term, which considers the climatic conditions influence and is able to assist the operation system programming of a Small Hydroelectric Power Plant, particularly in times of drought when water availability is restricted. The proposed methodology involves creating a discrete probabilistic pattern (Markov chain) from the historical data classification in a Self-Organizing Map (SOM). It is therefore possible to estimate the probability of reaching a certain demand level, taking the current climatic condition, as well as the periods of time (hours) until it happens. With this information it is possible to develop the best plant operation schedule so that it operates when the demand reaches its maximum numbers. The proposed method presents as differentials upon the other existing methods, the fact of considering the climatic variables influence (temperature, air humidity and wind speed) to forecast electricity demand in the very short-term, as well as the energy demand input values and climate variables obtainment (temperature and air humidity) in real time via a SCADA system. This methodology was applied using real data from a small electricity distribution plant in Rio Grande do Sul, showing satisfactory results, enough to allow their practical application.