Optimal Design of Multicarrier Energy Systems Considering Reliability Constraints

An energy hub, which receives, converts, stores, and delivers different energy carriers by means of a variety of energy converters and/or storage elements, is one of the most important concepts in multicarrier energy systems. For cost-effective and reliable supply of energy to loads in multicarrier energy systems, the problem of selecting different components forming the hub (referred to as hub design) and their operation is of great importance. In this paper, a comprehensive linearized model for optimal design and operation of energy hubs considering reliability constraints is proposed. Adequacy indices and maximum-allowable loss of load probability (LOLP) in case of single contingency are checked and different reliability constraints are introduced in the optimization process to satisfy the required level of reliability for different load types. Finally, the proposed method is applied on a test case considering electrical and thermal loads. The obtained results show the ability of the proposed method in meeting energy demand while respecting reliability constraints.