Optimal approach in the EMS of microgrids based on online forecasts

Abstract

Energy management system (EMS) is able to coordinate the generation and load to ensure economic and reliable operation and improve performance metrics of microgrids (MGs). However, most the previous studies have focused mainly on the optimal dispatch of the gas turbines and/or energy storage systems inside a normal MG. Very few works have been carried out to address the potential power outage in MGs. In this study, a novel optimal approach in the EMS based on online forecasts is proposed to minimise the system-wide outages of MG, specifically through pre-emptive load shedding. Online distributed generations' output forecasts are updated to predict the state of system and characterise potential upcoming outages. Proper control strategies based on receding horizon methods are introduced in this study. Outage mitigation actions using pre-emptive load shedding are then performed to avoid power outages or minimise the duration of unavoidable outages. The effectiveness of proposed approach can be demonstrated in the presence of various fluctuations, which can be easily integrated in the EMS for both islanded and grid-connected MGs.