Optimal Scheduling Strategy of Building Integrated Photovoltaic Microgrid Considering Virtual Energy Storage

Zhiping Cheng,Jikai Si,Rui Nie,Shuai Xu,Zhongwen Li,Xiang Li

doi:10.3390/app10186176

Abstract

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) is one of the most efficient ways to utilize renewable energy in buildings. However, the stochastic characteristic of PV power generation and load challenges the optimal dispatch of the BIPV. This paper proposes an optimal scheduling strategy of BIPV microgrid considering virtual energy storage (VES), which intends to further improve the operating economy of a BIPV microgrid. Firstly, existing research findings and gaps in this research area were analyzed. Then, the mathematical model of each unit in the system was created, meanwhile, the air conditioner-based VES (ACVES) model and electric water heater-based VES (EWHVES) model are built by exploiting the heat/cold storage capability of building and the electric water heater, respectively. Next, the optimal scheduling model considering the VES is designed. Finally, the optimal scheduling model is solved by CPLEX to obtain the optimal scheduling strategy that reduces the operating cost of the system. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed strategy can reduce the operating cost of the system. Furthermore, the VES shows the potential to replace the battery energy storage system.

Highlights

In recent years, with the increasing demand for energy, fossil fuel shortage and environmental aggravation are becoming more and more serious
The air conditioner-based VES (ACVES) model and electric water heater-based VES (EWHVES) model are built by exploiting the heat/cold storage capability of building and the electric water heater, respectively
Simulation results in different studies demonstrate that both ACVES and EWHVES are effective in reducing the operating cost of the system

Summary

Introduction

With the increasing demand for energy, fossil fuel shortage and environmental aggravation are becoming more and more serious. Renewable energy can effectively solve the above issues as potential alternatives to fossil fuel, which have wide attention [1,2]. BIPV is one of the most efficient ways to utilize renewable energy. In Europe, the potential of BIPV is estimated at more than 22% of the expected 2030 electricity demand, and other countries, including India, China, and Brazil, consider it to be an important option for generating electricity [3]. BIPV has become one of the most widely used forms of renewable energy in buildings.

Objectives

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion