A multi-objective formulation of improving flexibility in the operation of electric power systems: Application to mitigation measures during the coronavirus pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has infected more than 23 million people worldwide by August 2020 along with more than 800,000 deaths. To face this pandemic, a joint effort among different areas has been required. In this context, the correct supply of basic services is the key to enhance the complex circumstance. The operation of the electric power systems is needed to ensure the answer to the situation. Basic services in areas of health, security, food, and communications depend on the electricity supply. Consequently, this paper introduces a multi-objective procedure that enhances the operations of power systems under these circumstances. It considers geographical areas that are affected by coronavirus cases and their effects on the personnel of power plants. To obtain the best combinations of total cost and protection of the workers, lexicographic optimization is implemented. The effectiveness of this approach is studied by solving two test cases: a 6-bus system and the Argentine Electric System with real data about the infection cases. The effects on the electricity generation and transportation stages are studied. The results allow identifying critical areas and proposing corrective actions. The method can reach feasible solutions with a low computational requirement.