Optimal energy management for microgrids with cogeneration and renewable energy sources

In this paper, we propose a framework for optimal microgrid energy management considering key features such as utilizing combined heat and power (CHP), handling uncertainties associated with renewable energy sources (RES) and electricity prices, and regulating system voltage levels. Our objective is to minimize microgrid operating cost while maintaining power quality and system security of microgrids. We formulate a two-stage stochastic program to address uncertainties in electricity prices and RES power outputs. The microgrid can maintain both heat and power balances by using multiple distributed energy resources (DER) including CHP, RES, heat storage, batteries, heat boilers, and deferrable loads. Extensive simulation results show that the microgrid can minimize the operating cost and ensure the energy balance and system security by coordinating components in the framework we proposed.