Comparative analyses of scheduling scenarios to facilitate optimal operation of interconnected micro energy grids

Abstract

Micro energy grids (MEGs) are small local grids that operate at low voltage or medium voltage levels and include loads, control systems, and distributed generators (DGs). Distribution systems are expected to operate according to interconnected MEGs. A MEG can be scheduled to continue feeding its own loads with minimum power exchange with the main grid. There are demanding procedures for their optimal scheduling for performance enhancement. This paper presents a comparative analyses of scheduling scenarios to facilitate optimal operation of interconnected MEGs. Comprehensive hour-by-hour energy system analyses are conducted of a complete system meeting electricity and heat demands, and including CHP (combined heat and power), renewable resources (PV and wind), and boilers. The scheduling approach determines the optimal outputs of DGs based on i) compromising between the operational cost and emission of the entire interconnected MEGs system and/or ii) minimum power exchange with the main grid for self-sufficient MEGs system. In conclusion, the most efficient and least-cost scheduling scenarios are identified through energy system and feasibility analyses.