Closed loop optimal load control with application to microgrid load design

Abstract

Microgrids are envisioned to contain several interconnected sources supplying power to multiple loads. While many technologies may be used for generation, such as fossil fuels or renewables, there will likely be some amount of storage capacity. Efficient use of the stored energy is the motivation for this work. This paper focuses on developing closed loop control laws that define optimal load forms. Optimal will be defined as a combination of energy dissipation rate and power flow. In general, the control laws are nonlinear and thus the optimal load forms are nonlinear functions of the states of the network. A tutorial LC circuit is used to illustrate the method for developing the optimal load that efficiently uses the available stored energy.