Enhancing multi-area load frequency control with decentralized robust terminal sliding mode controllers

In a multi-area load frequency control (LFC) system, each area's dynamic frequency response reflects its capacity to balance local load and exchange power with neighboring areas. This paper presents a new decentralized terminal sliding mode control (TSMC) for secondary frequency regulation, accommodating both matched and unmatched disturbances. Stability analysis employs the Lyapunov direct method. The effectiveness of this control design is assessed through various uncertain conditions on the test power system model, including external load fluctuations, changes in system loading, inertia constant parameters, and significant integration of renewable energy sources. Comparative analysis shows that TSMC outperforms a conventional sliding mode controller in stabilizing dynamic responses, with improvements in settling time, reduced peak overshoot, and undershoots. Additionally, sensitivity analysis evaluates the robustness of the TSMC-based scheme, highlighting its efficacy in managing uncertain grid scenarios.