Practical Optimization

The recent escalation in fuel costs has resulted in a host of optimization problems which were non-existent when fuel was relatively inexpensive. Coupled with the increased costs have been more difficult operational constraints imposed by fuel vendors. These problems are particularly acute in natural gas fired units which cannot rely on reserve storage of fuel to meet demand. This research addresses the problem of optimal system operation subject to more contemporary operating constraints. The solution algorithm is based on a new optimization algorithm termed "practical optimization".