A Review of Seasonal Dispatch Modeling Methods

Rankine cycle power plants efficiency varies across the seasons due to changes in ambient air and cooling water temperatures. The size of this variation is influenced by the unit design. Test data collected on units to develop economic dispatch (input output) models produces an “as found” result. This result includes current imposed season influence and mechanical condition of the unit. With additional steps, these models can be adjusted to account for and quantify the seasonal efficiency changes. This paper will review the various methods used to account for these changes and evaluate the pros and cons of each method.