Stochastic Hydro-Thermal Scheduling Under CO₂ Emissions Constraints

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the design of a mechanism which is ultimately accepted by nations worldwide, the necessity to implement regulations to curb emissions of greenhouse gases on a global scale is consensual. The electricity sector plays a fundamental role in this puzzle and countries may soon have to revise their operating policy directives in order to make them compatible with additional constraints imposed by such regulations. We present a modeling approach for greenhouse gas emissions quotas which can be incorporated into a stochastic dual dynamic programming algorithm, commonly used to solve the hydro-thermal scheduling problem. Our approach is flexible and capable of accommodating a detailed representation of emissions and related constraints. A case study based on the Guatemalan power system exemplifies the potential effects of considering these restrictions.