Multi-agent based coalition formation of prosumers in microgrids using the i* goal modelling

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss the role of microgrids as a “prosumer”. Microgrids are used to provide locally generated power (energy), and this concept is becoming increasingly prominent with time. Microgrids have added economic value when assuming the role of “prosumer” or “group of prosumers”. A new outlook in managing prosumers connected to the energy sharing network has led to the creation of prosumer coalition groups, which can subsequently manage numerous goals in microgrid energy systems. For achieving prosumer energy goals, Goal-Oriented Requirements Engineering (GORE) is deployed in this work. Hence, the purpose of this research is to develop prosumer coalition-GORE artefacts, strategising GORE players, modelling non-functional requirements and ensuring sustainable requirements engineering management in the microgrid energy system. In this research, an i* goal model has been used to design a payoff function based on the game theory concept. The key to the pricing function is its fair distribution of payoffs depending on their surplus energy generation, thus providing optimum satisfaction to the buyer. With the objective of maximising the profits earned by prosumers through intra-microgrid energy trading, this paper also designs multi-objective functions to provide optimal value by using the i* goal model. By integrating Java with the IBM CPLEX optimisation tool, a simulation model based on the proposed method was developed and analysed. The results show that the proposed approach yields better outcomes when meeting the requirements of fairness and efficiency, reducing the intermittency effect of generation through renewable resources.