A software system was developed to simulate technical performance and predict feasible, economically optimum operating arrangements for a multi-faceted cogenerating combined cycle. The software combines detailed technical performance data with commodity prices and contractual obligations to predict equipment loads that optimize net plant revenue subject to several operational constraints. The optimization technique is iterative due to the nonlinear behavior of the plant. Detailed production capability of each plant component is pre-simulated over the entire range of operation using a widely-accepted, commercially-available simulation package. Pre-simulated results are stored in look-up tables for fast evaluation during optimization calculations. This paper describes the plant equipment, the optimization technique, and illustrates how the software output guides plant management in strategic planning and operations in an evolving competitive electric and gas market.Copyright © 1999 by ASME