Minimax model predictive operation control of grid-connected microgrids

microgrids (MGs) are a promising solution to global energy challenges. Robust and reliable operation while maximizing infeed from renewable sources and reducing the use of thermal generation are important objectives in the control of MGs. In this paper, two model predictive control strategies are applied to operate a grid-connected MG in the presence of bounded uncertainties in an optimal way. One is a certainty-equivalence and the other a minimax approach. They differ in the disturbance model used for renewable energy source infeed and load. To find an optimal operation strategy, a mixed-integer quadratic program is solved online. In a numerical case study, the results of two approaches are analyzed. The simulation shows, that compared to the performance of the certainty-equivalent case, the minimax approach is robust to disturbances and allows a secure operation of MGs in grid-connected mode.