Operation Of Microgrid Research Articles

An intelligent model for efficient load forecasting and sustainable energy management in sustainable microgrids

Microgrids have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing energy sustainability and resilience in localized energy distribution systems. Efficient energy management and accurate load forecasting are one of the critical aspects for improving the operation of microgrids. Various approaches for energy prediction and load forecasting using statistical models are discussed in the literature. In this work, a novel energy management framework that incorporates machine learning (ML) techniques is presented for an accurate prediction of solar and wind energy generation. The anticipated approach also emphasizes time series-based load forecasting in microgrids with precise estimation of State of Charge (SoC) of battery. A unique feature of the proposed framework is that utilizes historical load data and employs time series analysis coupled with different ML models to forecast the load demand in a commercial microgrids scenario. In this work, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Linear Regression (LR) models are employed for an experimental analysis to study the proposed framework under three different cases, such as (i) prediction of energy generation, (ii) load demand forecasting and, (iii) prediction of SoC of battery. The results show that the Random Forest (RF) and LSTM models performs well for energy prediction and load forecasting respectively. On the other hand, the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model exhibited superior accuracy in terms of SoC estimation. Further, in this work, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) is developed for evaluating the efficacy of the proposed energy management framework.

Optimization of microgrid operations using renewable energy sources

Microgrids, comprising localized energy systems capable of operating independently or in conjunction with the main grid, are increasingly being recognized as vital components of modern energy infrastructure. The integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into microgrids offers significant potential for enhancing operational efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. This paper presents an overview of recent advancements and methodologies for optimizing microgrid operations utilizing renewable energy sources. The optimization of microgrid operations involves the strategic coordination and management of diverse energy resources, including solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind turbines, and energy storage systems (ESS). Key objectives include minimizing operational costs, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring reliable power supply, and maintaining system stability. Advanced optimization techniques, such as model predictive control (MPC), mixed-integer linear programming (MILP), and heuristic algorithms, play a crucial role in achieving these objectives by enabling the dynamic adjustment of energy generation and distribution in response to real-time conditions. A critical aspect of microgrid optimization is the accurate forecasting of renewable energy generation and load demand. Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have been effectively employed to enhance prediction accuracy, thereby improving decision-making processes. Furthermore, the integration of ESS, such as batteries and flywheels, helps to address the intermittency of RES, providing a buffer that can store excess energy during periods of high generation and release it during peak demand. The implementation of demand response (DR) strategies within microgrids further contributes to optimization efforts. By incentivizing consumers to adjust their energy usage patterns in response to price signals or grid needs, DR programs help to balance supply and demand, reduce peak loads, and enhance overall grid reliability. Case studies and field implementations demonstrate the practical benefits of optimized microgrid operations. For instance, microgrids incorporating high shares of RES have been shown to achieve significant cost savings, improved energy security, and reduced environmental impacts. These successes underline the importance of ongoing research and development in optimization techniques and the need for supportive policy frameworks to facilitate the broader adoption of microgrids. In conclusion, optimizing microgrid operations using renewable energy sources presents a promising pathway toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future. Continued advancements in optimization algorithms, predictive analytics, and integrated system design are essential for unlocking the full potential of microgrids, ensuring they can effectively meet the evolving energy demands and environmental challenges of the 21st century. Keywords: Optimization, Microgrid, Operations, Renewable Energy, Energy Sources.

Stochastic Optimal Strategies and Management of Electric Vehicles and Microgrids

This study combines the Nash–Cournot competition model and the stochastic optimization model to examine the impact of electric vehicle (EV) quantity fluctuations on microgrid operations, aiming to optimize energy usage in a competitive electricity market. Integrating distributed energy resources and bidirectional charging, microgrids offer a novel approach for energy optimization, aiding in renewable energy generation, peak demand management, and emission reduction. Empirical evidence highlights benefits in Taiwan’s electricity market and net-zero emissions target by 2050, with a case study demonstrating enhanced local renewable energy generation due to EVs and microgrid integration. As the number of EVs increases, electricity sales from microgrids decline, but electricity purchases remain stable. The degree of electricity liberalization also influences the supply and demand dynamics of the electricity market. Microgrids selling electricity only to the main grid increases total power consumption by 65.55 million MWh, reducing the market share of the state-owned utility (Taipower). Conversely, allowing retailers to purchase from microgrids increases total consumption by 30.87 million MWh with a slight market share decrease for Taipower. This study contributes to providing an adaptable and flexible general model for future studies to modify and expand based on different scenarios and variables to shape energy and environmental policies.

Controller Design for Autonomous Direct Current Microgrid Operation

Controller Design for Autonomous Direct Current Microgrid Operation

Enhancing microgrid performance with AI‐based predictive control: Establishing an intelligent distributed control system

Enhancing microgrid performance with AI‐based predictive control: Establishing an intelligent distributed control system

DYNAMIC MODELLING OF THREE-PHASE MICROGRIDS INCLUDING DQ0 CURRENT CONTROLLED PHOTOVOLTAIC GENERATION UNDER TRANSIENT CONDITIONS

ABSTRACT: The photovoltaic generation can be interconnected to power systems or to insulated grids to satisfy the growing electrical demand as an alternative renewable energy source. The photovoltaic generator dynamics affects the control, protection, stability, and power quality of the electrical grid, this network dynamics requires to be examined and conveniently regulated and adjusted. The dynamic averaged model for the dq0 current controlled DC/AC inverter is applied to obtain the time-domain response to electromagnetic transients under special conditions such as electrical load fluctuations, unbalanced faults, voltage and current transients to verify e.g., the ride through capability or to adjust the protection and control devices, these transients can be present during the operation of electrical microgrids and power systems interconnected with photovoltaic generation. The system modelling includes the photovoltaic plant interconnected with the microgrid using the dq0 current controlled DC/AC inverter. The case studies are applied to analyse three-phase electrical microgrids, their time-domain response, and the obtained voltage and current waveforms can be used to verify the dynamic behaviour and stability of the electrical system interconnected with photovoltaic generation and similarly to verify the operation of the dq0 current controller for the inverter. The results can be used to control the microgrid dynamic behaviour. Keywords: current control, dq0 transform, inverter, microgrids, photovoltaic generation, power quality, protection, time-domain, transients, unbalanced faults, unbalanced voltage sags, voltage source converter

Optimal Operation of an Industrial Microgrid within a Renewable Energy Community: A Case Study of a Greentech Company

The integration of renewable energy sources in the European power system is one of the main goals set by the European Union. In order to ease this integration, in recent years, Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) have been introduced that aim to increase the exploitation of renewable energy at the local level. This paper presents an Energy Management System (EMS) for an industrial microgrid owned and operated by a greentech company located in the north of Italy. The company is a member of an REC. The microgrid is made of interconnected busbars, integrating photovoltaic power plants, a fleet of electric vehicles, including company cars and delivery trucks supporting Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), dedicated charging stations, and a centralized battery energy storage system. The industrial site includes two warehouses, an office building, and a connection to the external medium-voltage network. The EMS is designed to optimize the operation of the microgrid and minimize the operating costs related to the sale and purchase of energy from the external network. Furthermore, as the company is a member of an REC, the EMS must try to follow a desired power exchange profile with the grid, suggested by the REC manager, with the purpose of maximizing the energy that is shared within the community and incentivized. The results demonstrate that, when minimizing only costs, local self-consumption is favored, leading to a Self-Sufficiency Rate (SSR) of 65.37%. On the other hand, when only the adherence to the REC manager’s desired power exchange profile is considered in the objective function, the SSR decreases to 56.43%, net operating costs increase, and the energy shared within the REC is maximized.

A review of control strategies for optimized microgrid operations

AbstractMicrogrids (MGs) have emerged as a promising solution for providing reliable and sustainable electricity, particularly in underserved communities and remote areas. Integrating diverse renewable energy sources into the grid has further emphasized the need for effective management and sophisticated control strategies. This review explores the crucial role of control strategies in optimizing MG operations and ensuring efficient utilization of distributed energy resources, storage systems, networks, and loads. To maximize energy source utilization and overall system performance, various control strategies are implemented, including demand response, energy storage management, data management, and generation‐load management. Employing artificial intelligence (AI) and optimization techniques further enhances these strategies, leading to improved energy management and performance in MGs. The review delves into the control strategies and their architectures, and highlights the significant contributions of AI and emerging technologies in advancing MG energy management.

Two-stage data-driven optimal energy management and dynamic real-time operation in networked microgrid based on a deep reinforcement learning approach

Given the significant challenges posed by the vast and diverse data in energy management, this study introduces a two-stage approach: optimal energy management system (OEMS) and dynamic real-time operation (DRTOP). These stages employ a multi-agent policy-oriented deep reinforcement learning (DRL) approach, aiming to minimize operating and energy exchange costs through interactions in the networked microgrid (NMG) energy market. The primary objectives include minimizing the distribution system operator (DSO) cost and optimizing the exchanged power between DSO and NMG, and the power transmission losses and the secondary include minimizing MG’s operating cost, optimal use of renewable energy resources (RER) and energy storage systems (ESS), minimizing the exchanged power cost with the main grid and, risk analysis. The OEMS&DRTOP model is developed based on the Stackelberg game theory and the DRL structure. The DRL model is developed in two offline learning and online distributed operation phases to minimize the computational burden, time, and DRL operation process. This study’s results show the high efficiency of the presented approach to minimizing the operating cost, the exchanged power based on the price uncertainty, power transmission losses, and, RER and ESSs optimal participation. In addition, regarding computational load, the proposed concept demonstrates a 12.9% reduction compared to the dueling deep Q-network method and a 17% reduction compared to the deep Q-network method. Also regarding computational time, the proposed concept demonstrates a 17.13% reduction compared to the dueling deep Q-network method and a 25.6% reduction compared to the deep Q-network method.

Energy Management Strategy for Wind Solar Storage Microgrid Based on Improved Ant Lion Optimizer

The energy management of microgrids involves optimizing the capacity configuration, which significantly impacts the economic and stable operation of microgrids. This paper presents a control strategy for microgrid operation that effectively manages distributed power sources and energy storage to optimize capacity configuration. A mathematical optimization model for microgrid energy management is established considering minimum annual cost and optimal scale constraints. The traditional Ant Lion Optimizer (ALO) is improved by using dynamic weight coefficients and chaotic mapping to enhance the diversity of the population and improve the convergence of the algorithm. This can effectively avoid local optimal solutions and premature problems, and improve the convergence speed and search ability of the ALO algorithm. Based on this control strategy and improved ALO algorithm, simulations and tests were conducted using actual data from an independent microgrid, resulting in the optimal solution for the microgrid capacity allocation model. The case study results validate the practicality of the proposed microgrid operation control strategy as well as the superiority of the improved ant colony optimization algorithm.

Machine Learning Models for Solar Power Generation Forecasting in Microgrid Application Implications for Smart Cities

In the context of escalating concerns about environmental sustainability in smart cities, solar power and other renewable energy sources have emerged as pivotal players in the global effort to curtail greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The precise prediction of solar power generation holds a critical role in the seamless integration and effective management of renewable energy systems within microgrids. This research delves into a comparative analysis of two machine learning models, specifically the Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) and K Nearest Neighbors (KNN), with the objective of forecasting solar power generation in microgrid applications. The study meticulously evaluates these models’ accuracy, reliability, training times, and memory usage, providing detailed experimental insights into optimizing solar energy utilization and driving environmental sustainability forward. The comparison between the LGBM and KNN models reveals significant performance differences. The LGBM model demonstrates superior accuracy with an R-squared of 0.84 compared to KNN’s 0.77, along with lower Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE: 5.77 vs. 6.93) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE: 3.93 vs. 4.34). However, the LGBM model requires longer training times (120 s vs. 90 s) and higher memory usage (500 MB vs. 300 MB). Despite these computational differences, the LGBM model exhibits stability across diverse time frames and seasons, showing robustness in handling outliers. These findings underscore its suitability for microgrid applications, offering enhanced energy management strategies crucial for advancing environmental sustainability. This research provides essential insights into sustainable practices and lays the foundation for a cleaner energy future, emphasizing the importance of accurate solar power forecasting in microgrid planning and operation.

Optimum management of microgrid generation containing distributed generation sources and energy storage devices by considering uncertainties

In recent years, the financial and energy crises have made the economical and safe operation of distribution microgrids one of the main challenges for operators. In this regard, the optimal distribution of the microgrid, considering the favorable indicators of Generation and consumption, significantly improves the quality of the development and economic operation of electricity grids. On the other hand, distribution microgrids have many problems and complications due to the presence of DG sources and the uncertainties caused by them in Generation and consumption, such as the inability to solve optimal load distribution using common and common calculation methods. Therefore, grid technical indicators such as voltage deviation and losses in solving load distribution add to the complexity of related issues. To solve the challenges raised in the distribution microgrid, this paper proposes an optimal load distribution model that models the uncertainties in the distribution microgrids using the Monte Carlo method. Using meta-heuristic algorithms, the optimal Generation function by modeling grid security constraints such as voltage deviation, losses, and a load limit of the system should be in economic operation mode, and then the power distribution equations should be solved. The battery can supply 1 kW of active power to the system at a cost of 1 unit/kW during the high cost period if it absorbs 1 kW of active power at a cost of 0.92 units/kW during the low cost period. Additionally, the active and reactive power losses have been decreased to 0.3kW and 0.2kW, respectively, by utilizing the suggested methodology. The simulation results show that the proposed method performs satisfactorily and that the modeling is simulated in MATLAB software.

Comprehensive model for efficient microgrid operation: Addressing uncertainties and economic considerations

The fabrication of microgrids to harness renewable resources for local load provision has emerged as a promising concept. Efficient energy management and resource utilization within the electricity market have become crucial tasks for microgrid operation. This article presents a comprehensive model that addresses economic and technical considerations, as well as uncertainties associated with load, wind speed, and solar radiation. Specifically, the focus is on optimizing the utilization and energy consumption of controllable loads within a distributed energy system, taking into account consumer preferences and operational constraints. A two-stage planning problem is formulated to minimize microgrid operation costs and consumer payments, while considering load requirements, restrictions, and utility-imposed constraints. To solve this problem, an enhanced algorithm based on the mountain gazelle optimizer with improved local search operators is proposed, significantly enhancing its search capabilities. The retail electricity market is modeled using real-time pricing (RTP) and incentive-based regulation (IBR) tariffs to capture wholesale price fluctuations and discourage simultaneous consumption. Notably, price forecasting becomes essential in scheduling controllable loads, introducing uncertainties that are addressed by a two-point estimate method. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed approach, exhibiting low standard deviation and high resilience. The results highlight the potential of the proposed method in achieving cost-effective and reliable operation of microgrids in the face of uncertainties and dynamic market conditions.

Optimal coordination of overcurrent relays in microgrids using meta-heuristic algorithms NSGA-II and harmony search

The emergence of distributed generation from renewable energy sources has led to the adoption microgrids as an alternative energy solution. However, implementing microgrids presents challenges, particularly in coordinating relay protection, due to factors like distributed generation sources, bidirectional power flow, variable short-circuit levels, and changes in network behavior. Although overcurrent relays (OCR) are frequently utilized in microgrid protection, a more adaptable strategy is needed as grid architectures transition from radial to non-radial. This paper proposes a new method to optimize the coordination of OCRs in microgrids by adjusting parameters like time multiplier settings (TMS), plug settings (PS), and characteristic curve selection. The study utilizes meta-heuristic techniques such as the harmony search algorithm (HSA) and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II (NSAGA-II) for optimal coordination. Simulations on a microgrid and bus test system demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing protection indicators like sensitivity, speed, selectivity, and reliability in microgrid operations. The results also indicate that the computation time of HSA is less than NSGA-II, but with an increase in DGs capacity, there is a continuous tendency to reduce the relay operation time.

ANFIS-based power management and islanding detection utilizing permeation rate(γ) and relaxation parameter(ζ) for optimal operation of multiple grid-connected microgrids

Microgrid(s) integration into distribution networks and the growing use of Distributed Generation Systems necessitate the switch from traditional fossil fuel-based power generation methods to renewable resource-based ones. To achieve optimal power delivery, an adaptive method for solving power quality delivery problems posed by this transition is required. Unexpected islanding is an important power security concern that can lead to equipment damage, electrical risks, and decrease in power quality delivery. To address this problem, ANFIS-Based power management and islanding detection utilizing permeation rate(γ) and relaxation parameter(ζ) is proposed in this paper based on a rate of change of output voltage(ROCOV) of power sources at the point of common coupling in a 34-bus distribution network. Modeling of the distribution network, distributed generators, ANFIS training, and simulations was done using MATLAB/Simulink software. Results show that a 0.3 and 1.01 value indicates permeation rate of Microgrid(s) in a grid-tied mode whereas a 0 value indicates relaxation parameter of Microgrid(s) disconnected from the main distribution network. Islanding detection time of 0.02 sec was recorded when all Microgrids were disconnected during disturbances, and a 0.04 sec islanding detection time for disconnecting individual power sources at a time was recorded respectively. In general, islanding causes a system nominal voltage(400 V) deviation of 7 %. However, this was quickly restored without causing network voltage fluctuations due to the adaptive nature of ANFIS. Comprehensive simulations were used to validate the suggested method. The outcomes demonstrated that the proposed approach effectively distinguishes between islanding and non-islanding events and can quickly and accurately identify islanding as compared to other related works.

Disturbance-rejection control for unbalanced operation of microgrids: Invariant-set approach

In microgrids, voltage imbalance control is crucial to preserving the required level of power quality. The article presents a tracker design that mitigates the unbalance in the microgrids. The proposed microgrid model includes positive and negative sequences, whereby the positive sequences are controlled, and the negative sequence is treated as an external disturbance (whose effect must be attenuated). The uncertainty in the external disturbance is modelled in the norm-bounded form. The suggested control is based on attracting (driving) the state trajectory into a small region, including the origin (attracting ellipsoid-set). The effect of the negative sequence components is attenuated by minimizing the ellipsoid volume. When the state trajectory enters that region, it will never leave it for the future time (termed invariant-set). Two theorems were formulated for tracker synthesis that follows the desired reference and reduces the negative sequence impact. These theorems are the invariant-set method and the H∞ approach. The validity of the suggested control is demonstrated via testing the system under various operational unbalanced scenarios, such as unbalances or faults at the load side or in the transmission lines. The simulations show the superiority of the suggested method in terms of accuracy and dynamic response when compared with the H∞ . Additionally, a comparison is made between the suggested tracker and Active Disturbance Rejection Control (ADRC).

A multi-stage techno-economic model for harnessing flexibility from IoT-enabled appliances and smart charging systems: Developing a competitive local flexibility market using Stackelberg game theory

The increasing integration of renewable energy sources with power systems has led to greater uncertainties, heightening the need for more flexible services. Demand-side resources can provide significant flexibility cost-effectively, making it crucial to design new business models to harness their flexible capacities. Hence, this paper introduces a three-stage techno-economic framework designed to enhance the exploitation of flexible capacities from demand-side resources such as Internet-of-Things (IoT)-Enabled Appliances (IEAs), Battery-Integrated Rooftop Solar Panels (BIRSPs), and Electric Vehicle (EV) smart charging systems in the local flexibility market. The proposed framework operates in three stages. First, smart homes with IEAs, BIRSPs, and smart charging systems assess their flexibility and report it to their Microgrid (MG) operators. Next, MG operators optimize strategies to maximize market returns and report capacities to the Distribution System Operator (DSO). Finally, the DSO manages flexibility transactions based on MG inputs. A Stackelberg game theory model using a gradient-based method updates the coupling variables between market parties, ensuring convergence in the second and third stages within a decentralized space with limited information sharing. Implemented on a modified IEEE 69-node distribution system, the model fully utilizes the potential of smart homes, including IEAs, BIRSPs, and smart charging systems in the local flexibility market. It reduces the Upstream Network (UN) share in the local flexibility market by 56.86% and decreases DSO costs for energy balancing by 22.36%.

Human-safe and economic operation of renewable hydrogen-based microgrids under plateau conditions

The cold and hypoxic environment threatens the health and quality of people's lives in plateau areas. Appropriate air pressure, oxygen, and temperature are crucial for human-safe aspects in plateau microgrids. Facing extreme scenarios in these areas, we propose a two-stage robust operation strategy for renewable hydrogen-based microgrids considering the reliable supply of hydrogen and oxygen. To cope with rapid weather changes in these areas, the distributionally robust optimization (DRO) model that incorporates first-moment information is employed to depict renewable energy uncertainty. This study focuses on two weakly connected microgrids with distinct characteristics, showcasing their potential for mutual support. In the first stage, the plateau microgrid fulfills demands for electric power, hydrogen, and oxygen, with the power support from the another microgrid. In the second stage, reserves such as hydrogen fuel cells, diesel generators, and hydropower are utilized to mitigate renewable energy uncertainty. The operation optimization problem based on DRO is solved using the alternating direction method of multipliers. Case studies show that the strategy can coordinate complementary operation to enhance reliability, guarantee human safety, and save costs by 39.29 % and 38.73 % for the two microgrids.

A Mathematical Framework for Simultaneous Voltage and Frequency Regulation in Distributed Generator (DG) Grid-Interfaced Systems

Recent advancements in distributed generation (DG) systems interfaced with microgrids necessitate robust regulatory mechanisms to manage inherent power fluctuations, particularly from renewable sources like photovoltaics. These fluctuations can significantly impact the stability and efficiency of microgrids. This paper introduces a novel mathematical framework for simultaneous voltage and frequency regulation, aimed at addressing power quality and stability challenges in DG-grid interfaced systems. Utilizing a combination of algebraic topology and dynamical systems theory, we develop a model that incorporates an adaptive virtual frequency-impedance control loop. This mathematical approach allows for the analytical examination of the stability properties of the system and the design of control strategies that guarantee optimal operational thresholds. We extend the conventional droop control mechanisms with a rigorously defined Simultaneous Voltage and Frequency Correction Scheme (SVFCS), providing a theoretical underpinning that supports experimental observations. The efficacy of the proposed model is validated through numerical simulations that demonstrate adherence to the IEEE 519 standard, ensuring reduced harmonic distortion and enhanced system reliability. Our results highlight the potential for these mathematical methods to provide foundational insights into the control and optimization of microgrid operations.

Low-carbon optimal scheduling of park-integrated energy system based on bidirectional Stackelberg-Nash game theory

Multi-stakeholder participation is crucial in facilitating the development of park-integrated energy systems (PIES). Balancing the diverse interests of various stakeholders, each with its distinct requirements presents a notable challenge. Concurrently, the model's complexity increases due to the engagement of various stakeholders, posing challenges to its resolution through traditional methods. In this context, this paper aims to investigate an optimal scheduling model that incorporates shared energy storage (SES) system, microgrids operator (MGO), electric vehicles station (EVS), and user aggregator (UA) with multiple prosumers. To comprehensively address the interests of all stakeholders, this study introduces a tri-level optimization model. The proposed model integrates a bidirectional Stackelberg-Nash game framework, in which the SES acts as the leader, the MGO acts as the secondary leader, and the UA-EVS acts as the followers while allocating benefits based on the asymmetric Nash bargaining theory. The Stackelberg game model between MGO and UA-EVS is analyzed using the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) condition, while the Stackelberg game model between SES and MGO is resolved using the bisection method. Meanwhile, the Nash bargaining method among users is solved using the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) technique. The analysis indicates that the proposed strategy can reduce PIES's costs and carbon emissions, yielding a win-win situation for all stakeholders.