Novel Hybrid Optimization Technique for Solar Photovoltaic Output Prediction Using Improved Hippopotamus Algorithm

This paper introduces a novel hybrid optimization technique aimed at improving the prediction accuracy of solar photovoltaic (PV) outputs using an Improved Hippopotamus Optimization Algorithm (IHO). The IHO enhances the traditional Hippopotamus Optimization (HO) algorithm by addressing its limitations in search efficiency, convergence speed, and global exploration. The IHO algorithm used Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) for population initialization, significantly enhancing the diversity and global search potential of the optimization process. The integration of the Jaya algorithm further refines solution quality and accelerates convergence. Additionally, a combination of unordered dimensional sampling, random crossover, and sequential mutation is employed to enhance the optimization process. The effectiveness of the proposed IHO is demonstrated through the optimization of weights and neuron thresholds in the extreme learning machine (ELM), a model known for its rapid learning capabilities but often affected by the randomness of initial parameters. The IHO-optimized ELM (IHO-ELM) is tested against benchmark algorithms, including BP, the traditional ELM, the HO-ELM, LCN, and LSTM, showing significant improvements in prediction accuracy and stability. Moreover, the IHO-ELM model is validated in a different region to assess its generalization ability for solar PV output prediction. The results confirm that the proposed hybrid approach not only improves prediction accuracy but also demonstrates robust generalization capabilities, making it a promising tool for predictive modeling in solar energy systems.