Abstract: A state feedback sliding mode fault-tolerant control strategy based on linear matrix inequalities is proposed for the regulation system of hydropower units considering control uncertainties and disturbances. Firstly, a mathematical model of the regulation system of hydropower unit is established and the control law is designed with the model. Then, the sliding mode fault-tolerant control design is implemented based on the equivalent control principle of linear matrix inequality to improve the control performance and the reliability of the regulation system. In addition, the stability of the controller is analyzed based on the linear matrix inequality theory and Lyapunov stability criteria. The simulation results show that the sliding mode fault-tolerant control method can achieve better control effects for the regulation system of hydropower units with introduced control uncertainties and disturbances.