Optimal Power Generation Unit Sizing for Combined Heating and Power Systems With Uncertain Loads and Fuel/Electricity Prices

Abstract

An optimal sizing method is developed in this work based on an analytical scheme for determining optimal operation decisions. Using the analytic optimal operation scheme allows for a more thorough optimal sizing method because of the minimal computational effort required as compared to mixed integer programming approaches. For example, an optimal sizing method based on this approach can more feasibly consider several years of weather data and the range of likely fuel/electricity costs for the term of operation of the PGU. The optimal sizing method in this work takes advantage of this efficient optimal operation scheme and provides a robust optimal solution with respect to weather and fuel/electricity cost uncertainty. A case study of a medium sized office building is carried out by testing the algorithm for a range of 20 commercially available diesel engine PGUs.