Abstract
In this paper, firefly algorithm (FA) for optimal tuning of PI controllers for load frequency control of hybrid system composing of photovoltaic (PV) system and thermal generator is introduced. Also, maximum power point tracking of PV is considered in the design process. The block diagram of the hybrid system is performed. To robustly tune the parameters of controllers, a time domain-based objective function is established which is solved by the FA. Simulation results are presented to show the improved performance of the suggested FA-based controllers compared with genetic algorithm (GA). These results show that the proposed controllers present better performance over GA in terms of settling times and different indices.