Microgrids energy management in automated distribution networks by considering consumers’ comfort index

Modern distribution networks' scheduling faces many more challenges than traditional networks. Because on the one hand, it must satisfy the technical and security constraints of the distribution system, and on the other hand, it must observe the optimal scheduling of microgrids. Hence, in this paper, a bi-level mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model is presented in which the scheduling of the distribution network is done by considering the optimal scheduling of microgrids and smart homes. In the first level, each microgrid performs its optimal scheduling in a decentralized manner and delivers it to the distribution system operator (DSO). Then, in the second level, DSO plans the main grid according to the optimal schedule of microgrids and by implementing distribution feeder reconfiguration (DFR). Finally, the problem is solved in the form of four case studies by the CPLEX solver in GAMS software and the results show that the proposed model not only reduces the total operating cost by 27.05% but also significantly increases the consumers’ comfort index. The results also illustrate that DFR implementation and participation in the DR program reduce total operating costs by 19.11% and 14.02%, respectively.