Mixed-integer optimisation based approach for design and operation of distributed energy systems

This paper presents an optimisation based approach for the design and operation of residential distributed energy systems. The mathematical model minimises the total annualised cost of the system to meet its total energy demand, selecting from a pool of distributed energy generation, supply and storage alternatives as well as microgrid (MG) operation and a heating pipeline network. Technical and financial characteristics of the technologies and area-specific climatological and tariff structures are integrated in the model which is implemented in GAMS. The focus is to identify the optimal energy system design of a residential neighbourhood coupled with optimal operation of the selected technologies under given demand profiles. Selected system design scenarios are researched to determine the impact of photovoltaic (PV) units as one of several technology alternatives and energy tariffs on residential distributed energy system design. Two similar residential neighbourhoods based in Athens (Greece) and Adelaide (Australia) are compared.