Abstract: The deterministic dynamic programming method is often used in domestic production practice to solve the problem of optimized dispatch of cascade hydropower plants. The problems of the deterministic dynamic programming method in solving cascade power generation optimized dispatch caused by the limitation of the method itself were analyzed. The deterministic dynamic programming method is of certain guiding significance for seeking cascade medium and long term power generation optimal dispatch strategy and the power generation plan analysis, however, it is not suitable to solve the problem of shortterm power generation dispatch optimization.

Key words: deterministic dynamic programming method, cascade power generation, optimized dispatch, limitation