A Kangaroo Escape Optimizer-Enabled Fractional-Order PID Controller for Enhancing Dynamic Stability in Multi-Area Power Systems

In this study, we propose a novel metaheuristic algorithm named Kangaroo Escape optimization Technique (KET), inspired by the survival-driven escape strategies of kangaroos in unpredictable environments. The algorithm integrates a chaotic logistic energy adaptation strategy to balance a two-phase exploration process—zigzag motion and long-jump escape—and an adaptive exploitation phase with local search guided by either nearby elite solutions or random peers. A unique decoy drop mechanism is introduced to prevent premature convergence and ensure dynamic diversity. KET is applied to optimize the parameters of a fractional-order Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) controller for Load Frequency Control (LFC) in interconnected power systems. The designed fractional-order PID controller-based KET optimization extends the conventional PID by introducing fractional calculus into the integral and derivative terms, allowing for more flexible and precise control dynamics. This added flexibility enables enhanced robustness and tuning capability, particularly useful in complex and uncertain systems such as modern power systems. Comparative results with existing state-of-the-art algorithms demonstrate the superior robustness, convergence speed, and control accuracy of the proposed approach under dynamic scenarios. The proposed KET-fractional order PID controller offers 29.6% greater robustness under worst-case conditions and 36% higher consistency across multiple runs compared to existing techniques. It achieves optimal performance faster than the Neural Network Algorithm (NNA), achieving its best Integral of Time Absolute Error (ITAE) value within the first 20 iterations, demonstrating its superior learning rate and early-stage search efficiency. In addition to LFC, the robustness and generality of the proposed KET were validated on a standard speed reducer design problem, demonstrating superior optimization performance and consistent convergence when compared to several recent metaheuristics.