Flexible operation of active distribution network using integrated smart buildings with heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems

Abstract

Aiming to utilize the flexibility of smart buildings for flexible operation of active distribution network, a combined modeling and optimal scheduling method for the active distribution network with integrated smart buildings is proposed in this paper. Based on the heat storage characteristics of a building, the energy consumption prediction model of the building considering different heating zones with different orientations is developed using the Resistor-Capacitor thermal network model. Then, different optimal control methods of the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system in the building are developed. The energy consumption management of the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system is achieved by adjusting the room temperature within the suitable temperature comfort range. In order to further consider the impact of the integration of smart buildings on the economic and security operation of the active distribution network, the optimal scheduling method of the active distribution network with integrated smart buildings is developed considering the load factor of the aggregation of the smart buildings. Finally, the optimal scheduling results of the aggregation of the smart buildings under different heating, ventilation and air-conditioning control methods in the winter heating scenario are analyzed. In addition, based on the branch flow model, the optimal power flow model of active distribution network with on-load tap changer is constructed by piecewise linearization and second-order cone relaxation to achieve flexible and optimal operation of the active distribution network. Thus, the impacts of the optimal schedules of the aggregation of smart buildings on the economic and security operation of the active distribution network are further evaluated. Numerical studies demonstrate that the proposed optimal scheduling method can make full use of the demand response potential of the smart buildings and further contribute to the operating costs reduction of the smart buildings. Meanwhile, the optimization of the active distribution network with the load factor of the aggregation of buildings can reduce the power loss and increase the minimum voltage magnitude of the active distribution network utilizing the flexibility of the smart buildings.