Expert Commentary: Harnessing the Flexibility Potential of Multi-Community Integrated Energy Systems in Active Distribution Networks
This article discusses a novel approach to optimizing the operation of active distribution networks (ADNs) by utilizing the flexibility potential of multi-community integrated energy systems (MCIESs). ADNs are crucial for accommodating large-scale distributed renewable energy and flexible resources, and MCIESs have emerged as a significant source of flexible resources due to their multi-energy synergistic and complementary advantages.
The proposed approach in this study focuses on two key aspects – a flexibility auxiliary service pricing strategy and an MCIES-ADN flexibility interaction mechanism. The flexibility auxiliary service pricing strategy considers both the adjustment cost and flexibility margin of MCIESs to establish a fair and efficient pricing mechanism. By evaluating the operational flexibility of MCIESs, this strategy enables accurate valuation of the services they provide to ADNs.
To address the uncertainty associated with renewable energy generation, the study introduces an MCIES-ADN flexibility interaction mechanism based on insufficient flexibility risk. This mechanism aims to optimize the operation strategies of both MCIESs and ADNs to reduce uncertainty risks. By evaluating the flexibility margin of MCIESs and incorporating it into the dispatch process, the approach aims to enhance the utilization of renewable energy while minimizing the impact of uncertain generation.
The solution phase of the proposed approach utilizes an analytical target cascading theory-based distributed solving method. This method enables the decoupling and parallel solving of multiple stakeholders involved in the ADN operation. By distributing the solving process, it allows for efficient optimization while considering the different objectives and constraints of each stakeholder.
The simulation results presented in the study demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The application of the approach to a PG&E 69-node system with three CIESs shows improvements in MCIES revenue and enhanced ADN flexibility to consume renewable energy. These results highlight the potential of the proposed approach to facilitate efficient application of regional mutual aid.
Expert Insights
This research presents a comprehensive approach to leverage the flexibility potential of MCIESs in ADNs. By incorporating a flexibility auxiliary service pricing strategy and an MCIES-ADN flexibility interaction mechanism, the approach addresses key challenges in optimizing the operation of ADNs with distributed renewable energy sources.
The proposed flexibility auxiliary service pricing strategy is crucial for ensuring fair compensation for MCIESs’ flexibility services. By considering the adjustment cost and flexibility margin, the pricing mechanism accounts for the costs and benefits associated with the provision of these services. This can incentivize MCIESs to actively participate in ADN operations and contribute to the overall flexibility of the network.
The use of an MCIES-ADN flexibility interaction mechanism based on insufficient flexibility risk is particularly noteworthy. By assessing the risk associated with insufficient flexibility, the approach enables proactive optimization to reduce uncertainty risks. This mechanism can help ADNs and MCIESs make informed decisions and take appropriate actions to mitigate the impact of renewable energy variability.
The analytical target cascading theory-based distributed solving method is an innovative approach to achieve efficient optimization in ADNs. The decoupling and parallel solving of multiple stakeholders enable each entity to optimize its objectives while considering the overall system requirements. This can lead to improved coordination and collaboration among stakeholders, ultimately enhancing the overall operation of ADNs.
The simulation results showcasing the benefits of the proposed approach on a real-world system validate its effectiveness. The improved MCIES revenue and enhanced ADN flexibility demonstrate the potential of this approach to enable efficient utilization of renewable energy resources. Furthermore, the fundamental way for efficient application of regional mutual aid opens avenues for fostering collaboration and sharing of resources among different communities within ADNs.
In conclusion, this research contributes to the emerging field of ADN optimization by proposing a novel approach that harnesses the flexibility potential of MCIESs. The approach introduces advanced pricing and interaction mechanisms, along with an innovative solving method, to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of ADNs. Further research and real-world deployment of this approach can drive the integration of renewable energy and the realization of sustainable and resilient energy systems.