Optimal Design of a Microgrid with Multiple Energies Considering Reliability

The unprecedented penetration of distributed generation in distribution network provides utilities with a unique opportunity to manage portions of networks as microgrids (MG). The implementation of an MG may offer many benefits, such as capital investments deferral, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, improvement in reliability, and reduction in network losses. In order to draw the most effective performance from MG systems with multiple energies, appropriate design and operation are essential. This paper represents a compound co-optimization strategy to find the best type and size of components and the associated optimum dispatch in a MG with multiple energies considering reliability criteria. The mixed-integer nonlinear programming technique of GAMS and the genetic algorithm of MATLAB software are utilized to solve the optimization problem. In addition, a novel time-based demand response program is modeled to prevent the energy usage at peaks. Numerical simulations prove the effectiveness of the proposed expansion planning.