An analysis is made of the typical control strategy of primary frequency modulation and automatic generation control (AGC) for the operating hydropower units in Yunnan Province. The characteristics and disadvantages of the typical control strategy are pointed out through engineering test and data model analysis. It is proposed that the ramp function is used as AGC commands

and variable parameters control is adopted to meet different requirements of AGC and primary frequency modulation in the power control mode. AGC commands should be shielded when the load instruction of primary frequency modulation and AGC commands are opposite in direction

and the primary frequency modulation function should be shielded momentarily when AGC commands respond first in the gate open control mode. The logical relationship between AGC and primary frequency is optimized

and rational feasibility suggestions are made for the typical control strategy. The paper provides reference for finding a more ideal coordination strategy for the primary frequency modulation and AGC of hydropower units.