Operation optimization considering multiple uncertainties for the multi-energy system of data center parks based on information gap decision theory

Abstract

With the rapid growth of the digital economy, data centers have emerged as significant consumers of electricity. This presents challenges due to their high energy demand but also brings opportunities for utilizing waste heat. This paper introduces an operation optimization method for multi-energy systems with data centers, leveraging the information gap decision theory (IGDT) to consider various uncertainties from data requests and the environment. First, a model is established for the operation of a multi-energy system within data centers, considering the integration of server waste heat recovery technology. Second, IGDT is employed to address uncertainties of photovoltaic output and data load requests, thereby formulating an optimal energy management strategy for the data center park. Case studies demonstrate that the electricity purchase cost increased by 5.3%, but the total cost decreased by 30.4%, amounting to 5.17 thousand USD after optimization. It indicates that the operational strategy effectively ensures both efficient and cost-effective power supply for the data center and the park. Moreover, it successfully mitigates the risks associated with fluctuations in data load, thus minimizing the possibility of data load abandonment during uncertain periods.