Optimisation of cogeneration units in large heating systems

Abstract

The paper deals with the application of Mixed Integer Linear Programming method for scheduling of cogeneration, coal firing plants connected a large reconfigurable district heating network and including thermal storage facilities. The dispatch is driven by maximization of profits from the participation in the wholesale electricity market. The paper proposes an alternative solution for a simplified cogeneration unit model for dispatch purposes and it describes a joint optimisation of multiple plants connected to large reconfigurable district heating network including possible use of thermal storage facilities. The developed optimisation model is tested on a real size, large district heating system. The first results and conclusions derived from the practical validation of the scheduling tool shows that the approach adopted is of practical use and could improve daily and intraday planning of complex heating systems by increasing profits gained in the competitive electricity market.