Day-Ahead Cost Optimization of an Islanded Microgrid: A Practical Approach

As we transition towards clean energy, microgrids play a crucial role in increasing the penetration of renewable energies into the grid. Integrating optimization algorithms into the control strategy of microgrids is essential for ensuring optimal dispatching of resources and avoiding the curtailment of renewables. This paper proposes 3 mathematical models for the day ahead scheduling of an islanded microgrid, focusing on the practical aspects of controlling the dispatchable generators. Each mathematical model is implemented as a mixed integer linear programing optimization problem with the aim of minimizing the operating cost of the microgrid. The proposed mathematical models are tested and compared, using the same test scenario, in both simulation and an experimental setup of the microgrid. A correspondence between the simulated and experimental results is shown, as well as a comparison between the models, in each case. Furthermore, the results show a decrease of over 10% in operating cost when the microgrid is using optimization compared to the standard control strategy.