Optimal Operation of an Urban Microgrid Using Model Predictive Control Considering Power Quality Improvements

Abstract

Microgrids have been widely applied to improve the energy quality parameters of a distribution system locally, in addition to ensuring the operation of the system in an isolated manner. The Model Predictive Control (MPC) is a great solution to guarantee the operation of the system considering forecasting models and also physical restrictions of the system, which ensure the optimal operation of the Microgrid. However, the construction of a control scheme following the objectives established in order to meet the connected and isolated operation of a Microgrid is still a challenge. This paper proposes the development of an MPC control scheme that assures optimal system operation in connected and islanded mode, improving power quality indexes, ensuring network requirements, and extending battery life cycle. The proposed control operation in the connected mode can attend to the needs of the Microgrid, reducing the impacts of peak demand and the intermittent variations in renewable generation, where a linear objective function is developed for this purpose. In the islanded mode, grid requirements are guaranteed through load shedding, considering improvements in continuity indicators. Forecasting models are implemented considering the MPC approach and a detailed network model is developed. Simulation results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.

Real-Time Energy Management System for Microgrids

“…This intra-day layer has the objective to reduce the divergence between what was planned the day before and real-time information, using the data collected by the intraday layer to obtain more accurate predictions in the real-time layer, improving operation in MD. A Model Predictive Control (MPC) approach was developed in Perez and coauthors [14] considering both connected and islanded mode. The authors assure an optimal system operation for both modes, seeking to reduce impacts of peak demand and utility energy costs in connected mode and improvements in continuity indicators while in islanded mode.…”