Showing papers on "Power system simulation published in 2019"

Energy Systems Integration in Smart Districts: Robust Optimisation of Multi-Energy Flows in Integrated Electricity, Heat and Gas Networks

Abstract: Smart districts can provide flexibility from emerging distributed multi-energy technologies, thus bringing benefits to the district and the wider energy system. However, due to nonlinearity and modeling complexity, constraints associated with the internal energy network (e.g., electricity, heat, and gas) and operational uncertainties (for example, in energy demand) are often overlooked. For this purpose, a robust operational optimization framework for smart districts with multi-energy devices and integrated energy networks is proposed. The framework is based on two-stage iterative modeling that involves mixed integer linear programming (MILP) and linear approximations of the nonlinear network equations. In the MILP optimization stage, the time-ahead set points of all controllable devices (e.g., electrical and thermal storage) are optimized considering uncertainty and a linear approximation of the integrated electricity, heat, and gas networks. The accuracy of the linear model is then improved at a second stage by using a detailed nonlinear integrated network model, and through iterations between the models in the two stages. To efficiently model uncertainty and improve computational efficiency, multi-dimensional linked lists are also used. The proposed approach is illustrated with a real U.K. district; the results demonstrate the model’s ability to capture network limits and uncertainty, which is critical to assess flexibility under stressed conditions.

A review on the selected applications of forecasting models in renewable power systems

Abstract: This paper presents a literature review on the selected applications of renewable resource and power forecasting models to facilitate the optimal integration of renewable energy (RE) in power systems. This review is drafted on the basis of the selected high quality research publications from the past decade. Although the development of forecast models for RE generation, i.e., wind and solar energy, is a well-researched area, however, the performance of these models is usually evaluated using statistical error metrics. With regard to application, determining the optimality of accurate forecasts in terms of system economics and major planning aspects is an emerging phenomenon, that chalks out the main subject area of this survey. Specifically, the application domains include: 1) optimal power system dispatch (unit commitment, generation scheduling, economic dispatch), 2) optimal sizing of energy storage system, 3) energy market policies and profit maximization of market participants, 4) reliability assessment, and 5) optimal reserve size determination in power systems. The application-oriented review on these vital areas can be used by the power sector for familiarization with the recent trends and for analyzing the impact of forecasting improvement on optimal power system design and operation.

Robust Two-Stage Regional-District Scheduling of Multi-carrier Energy Systems With a Large Penetration of Wind Power

Abstract: This paper proposes a robust day-ahead scheduling method for a multi-carrier energy system (MES), which would enhance the flexibility of power systems with a large sum of variable wind power. We build an MES model and propose an optimal MES schedule which helps MES reduce wind power curtailment in power systems. At first, electricity and natural gas networks are coordinated at the transmission (regional) level for accommodating the large penetration of wind power in regional MES. The distribution (district) level MES coordinates energy conversion and storage to jointly supply the electricity, natural gas, and heat loads. The transmission level MES is modeled using detailed network equations while the distribution level MES is modeled as a device with multiple input/output ports using the linear branch-flow-based energy hub model. A two-stage robust model is established to consider the variability of wind power at the two MES levels. The proposed problem is solved by a nested column-and-constraint (C&CG) generation method. The first-stage problem which schedules the hourly unit commitment is solved in the outer loop, while the inner loop solves the second-stage problem to realize the worst scenario. Several acceleration strategies are utilized to enhance the computational performance of the nested C&CG. Numerical results offered for a 6-bus 3-node system and a modified IEEE 118-bus 10-node system show the effectiveness of the proposed MES model and solution technique for enhancing the power system flexibility.

Data-Driven Adaptive Robust Unit Commitment Under Wind Power Uncertainty: A Bayesian Nonparametric Approach

Abstract: This paper proposes a novel data-driven adaptive robust optimization (ARO) framework for the unit commitment (UC) problem integrating wind power into smart grids. By leveraging a Dirichlet process mixture model, a data-driven uncertainty set for wind power forecast errors is constructed as a union of several basic uncertainty sets. Therefore, the proposed uncertainty set can flexibly capture a compact region of uncertainty in a nonparametric fashion. Based on this uncertainty set and wind power forecasts, a data-driven adaptive robust UC problem is then formulated as a four-level optimization problem. A decomposition-based algorithm is further developed. Compared to conventional robust UC models, the proposed approach does not presume single mode, symmetry, or independence in uncertainty. Moreover, it not only substantially withstands wind power forecast errors, but also significantly mitigates the conservatism issue by reducing operational costs. We also compare the proposed approach with the state-of-the-art data-driven ARO method based on principal component analysis and kernel smoothing to assess its performance. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated with the six-bus and IEEE 118-bus systems. Computational results show that the proposed approach scales gracefully with problem size and generates solutions that are more cost effective than the existing data-driven ARO method.

Simultaneous Scheduling of Multiple Frequency Services in Stochastic Unit Commitment

Abstract: The reduced level of system inertia in low-carbon power grids increases the need for alternative frequency services. However, simultaneously optimizing the provision of these services in the scheduling process, subject to significant uncertainty, is a complex task given the challenge of linking the steady-state optimization with frequency dynamics. This paper proposes a novel frequency-constrained stochastic unit commitment model which, for the first time, co-optimizes energy production along with the provision of synchronized and synthetic inertia, enhanced frequency response, primary frequency response and a dynamically-reduced largest power infeed. The contribution of load damping is modeled through a linear inner approximation. The effectiveness of the proposed model is demonstrated through several case studies for Great Britain's 2030 power system, which highlight the synergies and conflicts among alternative frequency services, as well as the significant economic savings and carbon reduction achieved by simultaneously optimizing all these services.

Optimal Coordination of Water Distribution Energy Flexibility With Power Systems Operation

Abstract: This paper proposes a model for optimizing the energy flexibility of water distribution systems (WDSs) in day-ahead power systems operation. The water distribution system operators (W-DSOs) are considered as energy-conscious entities, who run the proposed WDS operation model to optimize the operation of pumps and tanks for minimizing the operation cost of local WDSs, given the expected water demand and electricity prices of the next day. A WDS energy flexibility model is proposed that is used by W-DSOs in order to calculate and offer the feasible flexible energy capacity to the power system operator. The proposed WDS operation model takes into account the hydraulic operating constraints of water networks, thus ensuring deliverability of the WDS energy flexibility. Further, a network-constrained unit commitment model is proposed that integrates and optimizes the energy flexibility of WDSs in the day-ahead operation of power systems. The proposed model is implemented on a 15-node WDS that is powered by a 6-bus power system and the results are presented to study the impacts of optimized WDS energy flexibility on power and water systems operation.

Multistage Stochastic Unit Commitment Using Stochastic Dual Dynamic Integer Programming

Abstract: Unit commitment (UC) is a key operational problem in power systems for the optimal schedule of daily generation commitment. Incorporating uncertainty in this already difficult mixed-integer optimization problem introduces significant computational challenges. Most existing stochastic UC models consider either a two-stage decision structure, where the commitment schedule for the entire planning horizon is decided before the uncertainty is realized, or a multistage stochastic programming model with relatively small scenario trees to ensure tractability. We propose a new type of decomposition algorithm, based on the recently proposed framework of stochastic dual dynamic integer programming (SDDiP), to solve the multistage stochastic unit commitment (MSUC) problem. We propose a variety of computational enhancements to SDDiP, and conduct systematic and extensive computational experiments to demonstrate that the proposed method is able to handle elaborate stochastic processes and can solve MSUCs with a huge number of scenarios that are impossible to handle by existing methods.

An Improved Mixed Integer Linear Programming Approach Based on Symmetry Diminishing for Unit Commitment of Hybrid Power System

Abstract: In this paper, the mixed integer linear programming (MILP) for solving unit commitment (UC) problems in a hybrid power system containing thermal, hydro, and wind power have been studied. To promote its efficiency, an improved MILP approach has been proposed, while the symmetric problem in MILP formulas has been solved by reforming hierarchical constraints. Experiments on different scales have been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The results indicate a dramatic efficiency promotion compared to other popular MILP approaches in large scale power systems. Additionally, the proposed approach has been applied in UC problems of the hybrid power system. Two indexes, fluctuation degree and output degree, have been proposed to investigate the performance of renewable energy sources (RES). Several experiments are also implemented and the results show that the integration of pumped hydroelectric energy storage (PHES) can decrease the output of thermal units, as well as balance wind power fluctuation according to the load demand.

Operation of a High Renewable Penetrated Power System With CSP Plants: A Look-Ahead Stochastic Unit Commitment Model

Abstract: The integration of variable renewable energy (VRE) generation, i.e., wind power and solar photovoltaic, brings significant uncertainty for the power system operation. Different with VRE techniques, concentrating solar power (CSP) is an appealing renewable generation technology due to its dispatch ability through the use of thermal energy storage and is thus expected to play a significant role in high renewable energy penetrated power systems. In this paper, we propose a look-ahead stochastic unit commitment model to operate power systems with CSP under high renewable energy penetration. It has a three-stage structure. The first stage optimizes the operational decisions in a day-ahead framework based on forecasts; the second stage minimizes the expected generation cost for possible realizations in the real time; and the third stage accounts for look-ahead operation in future operating days. This paper has a dual purpose: first, exploring how CSP plants operate in high renewable penetrated power systems; and second, analyzing the benefits of CSP in accommodating VRE generation. A case study on a modified IEEE RTS-79 system with actual solar and wind power data is provided to validate the proposed method.

Nonconvex Medium-Term Hydropower Scheduling by Stochastic Dual Dynamic Integer Programming

Abstract: Hydropower producers rely on stochastic optimization when scheduling their resources over long periods of time. Due to its computational complexity, the optimization problem is normally cast as a stochastic linear program. In a future power market with more volatile power prices, it becomes increasingly important to capture parts of the hydropower operational characteristics that are not easily linearized, e.g., unit commitment and nonconvex generation curves. Stochastic dual dynamic programming (SDDP) is a state-of-the-art algorithm for long- and medium-term hydropower scheduling with a linear problem formulation. A recently proposed extension of the SDDP method known as stochastic dual dynamic integer programming (SDDiP) has proven convergence also in the nonconvex case. We apply the SDDiP algorithm to the medium-term hydropower scheduling (MTHS) problem and elaborate on how to incorporate stagewise-dependent stochastic variables on the right-hand sides and the objective of the optimization problem. Finally, we demonstrate the capability of the SDDiP algorithm on a case study for a Norwegian hydropower producer. The case study demonstrates that it is possible but time-consuming to solve the MTHS problem to optimality. However, the case study shows that a new type of cut, known as strengthened Benders cut, significantly contributes to close the optimality gap compared to classical Benders cuts.

A Data-Driven Model of Virtual Power Plants in Day-Ahead Unit Commitment

Abstract: Due to the increasing penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs), power system operators face significant challenges of ensuring the effective integration of DERs. The virtual power plant (VPP) enables DERs to provide their valuable services by aggregating them and participating in the wholesale market as a single entity. However, the available capacity of VPP depends on its DER outputs, which is time varying and not exactly known when the independent system operator runs the day-ahead unit commitment engine. In this study, we develop a model to evaluate the physical characteristics of the VPP, i.e., its maximum capacity and ramping capabilities, given the uncertainty in wind power output and load consumption. The proposed model is based on a distributionally robust optimization approach that utilizes moment information (e.g., mean and covariance) of the unknown parameter. We reformulate the model as a binary second-order conic program and develop a separation framework to address it. We first solve a two-stage problem and then benchmark it with a multi-stage case. Case studies are conducted to show the performance of the proposed approach.

Robust Energy Management of Isolated Microgrids

Abstract: This paper presents the mathematical formulation and architecture of a robust energy management system for isolated microgrids featuring renewable energy, energy storage, and interruptible loads. The proposed strategy addresses the challenges of renewable energy variability and forecast uncertainty using a two-stage decision process combined with a receding horizon approach. The first-stage decision variables are determined using a cutting-plane algorithm to solve a robust unit commitment; the second stage solves the final dispatch commands using a three-phase optimal power flow. This novel approach is tested on a modified International Council on Large Electric Systems (CIGRE) test system under different conditions. The proposed algorithm is able to produce reliable dispatch commands without considering probabilistic information from the forecasting system. These results are compared with deterministic and stochastic formulations. The benefits of the proposed control are demonstrated by a reduction in load interruption events and by increasing available reserves without an increase in overall costs.

Backbone—An Adaptable Energy Systems Modelling Framework

Abstract: Backbone represents a highly adaptable energy systems modelling framework, which can be utilised to create models for studying the design and operation of energy systems, both from investment planning and scheduling perspectives. It includes a wide range of features and constraints, such as stochastic parameters, multiple reserve products, energy storage units, controlled and uncontrolled energy transfers, and, most significantly, multiple energy sectors. The formulation is based on mixed-integer programming and takes into account unit commitment decisions for power plants and other energy conversion facilities. Both high-level large-scale systems and fully detailed smaller-scale systems can be appropriately modelled. The framework has been implemented as the open-source Backbone modelling tool using General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS). An application of the framework is demonstrated using a power system example, and Backbone is shown to produce results comparable to a commercial tool. However, the adaptability of Backbone further enables the creation and solution of energy systems models relatively easily for many different purposes and thus it improves on the available methodologies.

Practical Energy Management Systems for Isolated Microgrids

Abstract: This paper presents practical energy management system (EMS) models which consider the operational constraints of distributed energy resources, active-reactive power balance, unbalanced system configuration and loading, and voltage dependent loads. A novel linearization approach is proposed and validated based on the fact that, for isolated microgrids, due to the characteristics of feeders, network losses, and voltage drops across feeders are relatively small. The proposed EMS models are mixed integer quadratic programming problems, requiring less computation time and thus suitable for online applications. The practical EMS models are compared with a typical decoupled unit commitment and optimal power flow-based EMS with and without consideration of system unbalancing. The models, along with “standard” EMS models, are tested, validated, and compared using a CIGRE medium voltage benchmark system and the real isolated microgrid of Kasabonika Lake First Nation in Northern Ontario, Canada. The presented results demonstrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed models.

A High-Efficiency Network-Constrained Clustered Unit Commitment Model for Power System Planning Studies

Abstract: The increasing complexity of power systems, particularly the high renewable energy penetration, raises the necessity of incorporating detailed power system operation models into long-term planning studies. The classic short-term operation model, i.e., network-constrained unit commitment (NCUC), involves many binary variables and introduces computational challenges when applied to long-term planning optimizations. A high-efficiency and simplified NCUC model is required to incorporate operational flexibility in power system planning studies. This paper proposes a linearized NCUC formulation that has a high calculation performance and minor approximation errors compared to the full NCUC model. The proposed model combines the dispatch-only (DO) operation model and clustered unit commitment (CUC) model by introducing linking constraints between them such that the overall model guarantees both the transmission security constraints that are formulated in the DO model and the start-up/shut-down constraints of generating units that are formulated in the CUC model. A case study of a modified IEEE RTS-79 system is provided to demonstrate the validation and efficiency of the proposed simplified NCUC model as well as its effectiveness for power system planning studies.

Enhancing the Transmission Grid Resilience in Ice Storms by Optimal Coordination of Power System Schedule With Pre-Positioning and Routing of Mobile DC De-Icing Devices

Abstract: This paper proposes a resilience enhancement strategy for power transmission system against ice storms by the optimal coordination of power system schedule with the pre-positioning and routing of mobile dc de-icing devices (MDIDs). A two-stage robust optimization model is established to accommodate the variable ice thickness on transmission lines. The first stage coordinates the pre-positioned MDIDs and unit commitment in day-ahead. These decisions, which are based on a robust approach, can accommodate the variable ice thickness in which the coordinated real-time schedule would always be feasible with respect to day-ahead decisions. At the second stage, the real-time operation, which integrates the power system dispatch, de-icing schedule, and MDID routing, is scheduled according to the real-time ice thickness. Auxiliary variables are adopted to convert the proposed nonconvex nonlinear model to a mixed-integer second-order cone programming (MISOCP) problem. The nested column-and-constraint generation algorithm is utilized to solve the two-stage robust MISOCP problem. Several computational enhancement strategies including Lagrangian relaxation are proposed to improve the performance of the proposed resilience enhancement strategy. Numerical results for an integrated 6-bus 6-node electricity-road network and a real-world example employed in China show the effectiveness of the proposed model and solution technique for enhancing the transmission grid resilience.

Decentralized Unit Commitment in Integrated Heat and Electricity Systems Using SDM-GS-ALM

Abstract: The decentralized unit commitment problem (DUCP) solved by autonomous distributed agents has been studied by many researchers. Several methods based on traditional distributed optimization approaches have been proposed for solving the DUCP. However, these existing methods do not determine the unit commitment (UC) decisions in a distributed manner or cannot theoretically guarantee convergence and optimality. This paper proposes a method for formulating and solving the DUCP using a recently published parallelizable augmented Lagrangian method, referred to as SDM-GS-ALM. SDM-GS-ALM is a parallelizable method for solving large-scale non-convex problems, and under mild conditions, its optimality and convergence have been proven. The DUCP can be modelled as a mixed-integer linear programming problem, and in this case, its global optimal solution can be obtained via SDM-GS-ALM. This paper focuses on the DUCP in integrated heat and electricity systems. The proposed model and solution method are both general and can be applied directly to solve the DUCP in power systems. The optimality and convergence of the proposed method are demonstrated in case studies. In three test systems, the gaps between the optimal objective values of the centralized UC problem and the DUCP are less than 0.001%.