Virtual power plant energy optimisation in smart grids

The growing number of distributed renewable energy sources connected to the grid has brought some challenges to the management of the power system network. New optimisation models are required to manage these distributed generation units when they are clustered together. In this case, virtual power plants (VPPs) plays an important role by ensuring that the value of the produced power by clusters of distributed power generation units is efficiently managed. In this paper, an optimisation model based on mixed integer programming technique for the management of clusters of distributed generation units consisting of local heat and power supply system with CHPs, solar photovoltaic systems and thermal power generation units is presented. The proposed algorithm ensures maximum benefit of thermal and electric energy in the power system network. The results show that there is a 10% increase in benefit when virtual power plants are used and optimised.