Multiobjective Optimization Dispatch for Microgrids With a High Penetration of Renewable Generation

Many benefits can be achieved through the implementation of a Microgrid controller, such as minimized cost, reduction in peak power, power smoothing, greenhouse gas emission reduction, and increased reliability of service. However, most Microgrid controllers found in the literature and in the industry optimize a single objective, which either exacerbates or does not solve the problems with integrating a high penetration of renewable energy. This paper presents a methodology of formulating a multiobjective optimization (MOO) so that each objective is quantified through valuation functions that can be specific to every Microgrid. The proposed approach attains a Pareto-optimal solution by directly comparing the quantified valuation functions and solving as if it were a single-objective optimization (SOO) problem. Three cases of controllers are presented and compared: 1) a base case system with no controller; 2) an SOO that optimizes the cost of energy; and 3) an MOO that optimizes five identified benefits. Results show that the proposed controller can mitigate the negative impacts of volatile generation to levels below that of the system load.