Modeling and simulation of multi-vector energy systems

The energetic scenario shows ever growing energy consumptions and the need of an optimal management of different types of energy distributed resources. The synergy among different energy carriers could be exploited to achieve a more efficient use of the resources, an increase of the reliability of the electrical system, a greater integration of renewable generation in the system and both a demand and supply side management. In this paper a simulation environment of multi-vector energy networks is presented. In particular, the paper focuses on the role that CHP units may have in coupling electric and thermal networks and their feasibility of participating to the distribution network voltage regulation.