Real-time energy optimization and scheduling of buildings integrated with renewable microgrid

Abstract

Real-time energy optimization is essential for effective load scheduling, cost reduction, maintaining demand and supply balance, and ensuring reliable power system operations. However, real-time energy optimization is challenging due to the unpredictable nature of renewable energy sources (RES) and the behavior of electric loads. On this note, a rigid model is required that can deal with this dilemma. Thus, the Lyapunov optimization technique (LOT) emerged as a solution for the real-time energy optimization problem. This work investigates a smart home equipped with inflexible loads (TV, computer, light, etc.), flexible loads (EVs, HVAC, water heaters, etc.), and RES (photovoltaic and wind energy) in a grid-connected mode that ensures energy trading (purchasing and selling of energy). The aim is to optimize total cost, thermal discomfort cost, and batteries and EVs charging/discharging using LOT by real-time energy optimization, which does not require any system parameters to be anticipated. The proposed algorithm employs LOT for four queues to solve the real-time energy optimization problem. Simulations are conducted for different scenarios and varying weather conditions to endorse the effectiveness of the developed real-time energy optimization solution in various aspects of the performance metrics.