Design optimization model for the United Arab Emirates power sector under uncertainty

Abstract

A mixed integer linear programming model for the optimal design of the United Arab Emirates power infrastructure under uncertainty is presented. The optimization objective is the minimization of the power generation costs in the UAE under techno-economic and environmental constraints. Uncertainty is considered in the carbon tax price and social benefits associated with the avoidance of air emissions. The optimization problem was formulated in the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS®). The novelty of the present work consists of determining the most suitable combination of power generation plants under uncertainty. This work also considers the introduction of alternative energy sources such as nuclear and renewables into the country's power fleet. Two case studies are solved to demonstrate the usefulness of the devised approach.