Optimal scheduling of non-convex cogeneration units using exponentially varying whale optimization algorithm

This paper proposes an Exponentially Varying Whale Optimization Algorithm (EVWOA) to solve the single-objective non-convex Cogeneration Units problem. This problem seeks to evaluate the optimal output of the generator unit to minimize a CHP system’s fuel costs. The nonlinear and non-convex characteristics of the objective function demands a powerful optimization technique. The traditional Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) is improved by incorporating four different acceleration functions to fine-tune its performance during exploration and exploitation phases. Among the four variants of the proposed WOA, the emphasis is laid on the EVWOA which uses the exponentially varying acceleration function (EVAF). The proposed EVWOA is tested on six different small-scale to large-scale systems. The results obtained for these six test systems, followed by a statistical study highlight the supremacy of EVWOA for finding the best optimal solution and the convergence traits.