Stochastic multi-objectives optimal scheduling of energy hubs with responsive demands in smart microgrids

Energy hubs (EHs) are progressively being implemented in microgrids for local generation, transfer, and storage of various forms of energy. However, issues have emerged around developing an operating schedule for the different energy resources incorporated in the EHs to ensure the operation at minimum possible costs and emissions. This paper proposes a stochastic-based multi-objectives optimization model for optimal day-ahead scheduling of microgrids based on EHs. The proposed model simultaneously manages the non-dispatchable distributed generator units, such as wind turbines and photovoltaic systems, and energy storage systems, such as compressed air energy storage (CAES) and battery energy storage systems. Moreover, the thermal network is also established by introducing solar heat collectors, heat generated during the discharge of CAES, and thermal energy storage. Furthermore, the proposed model also considers the uncertainties of wind speed, solar radiation, and residential loads. A demand response program (DRP) is also employed to the residential and plug-in electric vehicles load to flatten the load curve and to perform more cost-effectively. A total reduction of 9.87 % and 21.41 % is achieved in the cost and emission amount, respectively, after applying the DRP. Furthermore, a decrease of 13.41 % and 45.04 % is also achieved for the costs of imported power and operation of the CAES, respectively. Different case studies are performed, and a comparative study with other existing research is conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The simulation results show the efficacy of the proposed stochastic approach for optimal day-ahead scheduling.