Front. Energy Res. Frontiers in Energy Research Front. Energy Res. 2296-598X Frontiers Media S.A. 1281772 10.3389/fenrg.2023.1281772 Energy Research Original Research Research on optimal configuration of park-level multi-energy complementary system with multiple evaluation indexes Wu et al. 10.3389/fenrg.2023.1281772 Wu Yingjun 1 * Chen Ji 1 Zhang Xinyuan 1 He Kewei 2 Jin Lei 1 1 State Grid Ningbo Electric Supply Company, Ningbo, China 2 Glory Property Branch of Ningbo Power Transmission and Transformation Construction Co., Ltd., Ningbo, China

Edited by: Zhengmao Li, Aalto University, Finland

Reviewed by: Suhan Zhang, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China

Zening Li, Taiyuan University of Technology, China

 *Correspondence: Yingjun Wu, wyj711002@aliyun.com 10 10 2023 2023 11 1281772 23 08 2023 19 09 2023 Copyright © 2023 Wu, Chen, Zhang, He and Jin. 2023 Wu, Chen, Zhang, He and Jin

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At present, energy shortages are becoming increasingly severe, and the concept of park level multi energy complementary systems (MECS) has provided direction for sustainable energy development. In recent years, how to improve the economy and reliability of multi energy complementary systems has become a research hotspot in this field. In this paper, a two-layer optimal scheduling strategy is proposed to allocate the capacity of various energy equipment in the park, considering the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, comprehensive energy utilization rate and energy shortage expectation. The proposed capacity allocation scheme can effectively improve the economy of MECS in the park. Finally, the effectiveness and practicability of the algorithm are verified by simulation analysis.

 park level multi energy complementary system sustainable energy capacity allocation scheme two-layer optimal scheduling strategy section-at-acceptance Sustainable Energy Systems 1 Introduction

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the global energy landscape towards renewable and sustainable energy, which has given rise to the concept of a MECS that integrates various renewable energy, storage technologies, and energy management strategies to improve the efficiency and reliability of the overall system (Zheng et al., 2019; Deng et al., 2021; Weizhen et al., 2021; Qian et al., 2022). As the deployment of such systems expands, optimizing their configuration becomes crucial for maximizing their benefits. A key challenge in optimizing MECS is to evaluate their performance using multiple metrics. Traditional single indicator optimization methods often fail to capture the complex interdependence between various system components and their impact on different evaluation criteria (Liu et al., 2020a; Miguel and Ren, 2021; Liu et al., 2022a; Yang et al., 2022). Therefore, it is imperative to develop a comprehensive optimization method that considers multiple evaluation indicators simultaneously (Xu et al., 2020a; Zhang et al., 2021a; Liu et al., 2021).

In recent years, many scholars have conducted research on the optimization scheduling problem of park level MECS. In reference (Wang et al., 2021a), a coordinated optimization framework for the world’s largest multi energy complementary base and MECS in the upper reaches of the Yellow River was proposed, which combines a long-term optimal operation model with a short-term optimal operation model to determine the proportion of multiple energies and optimize the maximum peak shaving capacity; Using the large-scale system decomposition and coordination method to solve the proposed two-level operational model. In reference (Yin et al., 2021), a risk constrained stochastic scheduling model was proposed to utilize the potential scheduling capabilities of multi energy systems, while maintaining the level of system operational risk, to seek solutions for economic operation in response to uncertain renewable energy generation. In reference (Mao et al., 2021), a cooperative operation framework model for a wind solar combined cycle multi energy system was studied. Describing the optimal operation scheduling problem of multi energy systems as a Nash bargaining optimization problem, rather than traditional non cooperative solution based methods, and solving it through the alternating direction multiplier method. In reference (Wang et al., 2020), in order to obtain the minimum operating cost, an operational optimization model was established and the moth flame optimization algorithm was used to optimize the schedule of each unit in the hybrid energy system. In reference (Xu et al., 2020b), an iterative solution was developed to arrange multiple energy conversion and storage devices within the hub to efficiently utilize available hybrid solar wind renewable energy. In reference (Wang et al., 2021b), an optimal scheduling model was proposed for wind power, photovoltaic, hydropower, thermal power, and outsourced power generation systems, with the minimum economic cost of thermal power generation as the objective function, including a complementary system of wind power, photovoltaic, hydropower, and thermal outsourced power. In reference (Zhang et al., 2023a), an energy hub (EH) model including energy storage systems and integrated electric vehicles (EVs) was established. Based on this model, the impact of the pollutant trading market on total operating costs was analyzed, and further optimization scheduling strategies were proposed to achieve the minimum purchase cost and emission tax cost of MES. In reference (Zhang et al., 2023a), a multi product optimal scheduling algorithm considering the complementarity of different hydrogen products is proposed to optimize the scheduling factors of the energy hub system and achieve Profit maximization within the limited resource range. In reference (An et al., 2020), an optimization scheduling model was established with the goal of minimizing output power fluctuations, considering multiple power supply constraints. In order to solve the problem of premature and slow convergence in the second half of Particle swarm optimization (PSO), a niche Particle swarm optimization method is proposed to determine the optimal solution of the model combined with the niche technology in evolution.

However, most of the references mentioned above only consider economic and carbon emission costs, without considering issues such as comprehensive energy utilization and self-sufficiency (Liu et al., 2020b; Zhang et al., 2020; Chen et al., 2021; Liu et al., 2022b; Ororbia and Warn, 2022; Zhang et al., 2022; Li et al., 2023). This study aims to address this urgent need and propose an innovative method for optimizing the configuration of park level MECS that considers multiple evaluation indicators. By doing so, we seek to identify the most effective and sustainable configurations that align with the overall goals of energy security, cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and operational reliability (Yu-Kai et al., 2013; Liu and Mancarella, 2016; Qinglai et al., 2017; Du et al., 2020; Du and Li, 2020; Zhang et al., 2021b; Cai and Ying, 2021).

In order to achieve our research objectives, we will adopt a holistic perspective and consider the interaction of different energy, storage technologies, and energy management strategies within the framework of a multi energy park. This study will utilize advanced modeling and simulation techniques to analyze the dynamic behavior and interactions of different system components (Zhang et al., 2021c; Wang et al., 2022; Xue et al., 2022; Liu et al., 2023a; Liu et al., 2023b; Zhang et al., 2023b; Yang et al., 2023). On the basis of existing literature, this paper takes into account various needs such as economy, energy sustainability, efficiency, and reliability. Among them, economy and energy sustainability are represented by the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, efficiency is represented by the comprehensive energy utilization rate, and reliability is represented by reliability indicators. By examining multiple indicators simultaneously, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of system performance and determine the optimal configuration to achieve a balance between different evaluation criteria. The results of this study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, energy planners, and system operators to design and deploy future MECS at the park level. The research findings will help promote sustainable energy solutions and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon and resilient energy future.

In the following chapters, the specific arrangement is as follows: In Chapter 2, the overall architecture and equipment model of the park level MECS are introduced; In Chapter 3, three evaluation indicators and their mathematical models are introduced; In Chapter 4, the two-layer optimization model and algorithm used in this paper are introduced; In Chapters 5 and 6, corresponding conclusions were obtained through simulation analysis, proving the accuracy and practicality of the algorithm proposed in this paper.

 2 Modeling of park level MECS 2.1 Structure of park level MECS

The park level MECS includes links such as energy production, conversion, and storage. This paper uses an energy hub model to describe the energy flow coupling relationship of the park’s comprehensive energy new system, and constructs a typical park level MECS structure as shown in Figure 1.

Structure of the Park’s MECS.

 2.2 Model of energy equipment 2.2.1 Renewable energy power generation equipment model

Photovoltaic power generation is related to light intensity, and its output model is described as follows: P P V , t = α t P P V , N / α N 0 ≤ α t < α N P P V , N α t ≥ α N where, P PV,t represents the actual photovoltaic power during time t, P PV,N represents the rated photovoltaic power, α t represents the actual light intensity during time t, and α N represents the rated light intensity.

 2.2.2 Energy conversion equipment model 2.2.2.1 Cogeneration model

P CHP,t e = η CHP e P CHP,t g P C H P , t h = η C H P h P C H P , t g where, P C H P , t e and P C H P , t h respectively represent the electric power and thermal power generated by Cogeneration in period t, P C H P , t g represents the natural gas power absorbed by Cogeneration in period t, and η C H P e and η C H P h respectively represent the power generation efficiency and heat generation efficiency of cogeneration.

 2.2.2.2 Gas boiler model

P G B , t h = η G B P G B , t g where, P G B , t h is the heat generation power of the gas boiler, η GB is the heat generation efficiency of the gas boiler, and P G B , t g is the natural gas consumption power of the gas boiler during time t.

 2.2.2.3 Electric boiler model

P E B , t h = η E B P E B , t e where, P E B , t h is the heat generation power of the electric boiler at time t, η EB is the heat generation efficiency of the electric boiler, and P E B , t e is the electrical power consumed by the electric boiler at time t.

 2.2.3 Energy storage equipment model 2.2.3.1 Electric energy storage model

For electric energy storage equipment, the energy storage ratio during time t is related to the charging and discharging power during that time period and the energy storage state of charge during time t-1, specifically expressed as: S E S , t = S E S , t − 1 + P E S , t + η E S + Δ t − P E S , t − Δ t η E S − where, Δt is the optimized time interval, S ES,t is the energy of electric energy storage equipment in t period, P E S , t + and P E S , t − are respectively the charging and discharging power of electric energy storage equipment in t period, and η E S + and η E S − are respectively the charging and discharging efficiency of electric energy storage equipment.

 2.2.3.2 Thermal energy storage model

For thermal energy storage equipment, the energy storage ratio during time t is related to the storage and heat release power during that time period and the energy storage ratio during time t-1, specifically expressed as: S H S , t = S H S , t − 1 + P H S , t + η H S + Δ t − P H S , t − Δ t η H S − where, S HS,t is the energy of thermal energy storage equipment in period t, and P H S , t + ⋅ and ⋅ P H S , t − are respectively the charging and discharging power of thermal energy storage equipment in period t, and η H S + ⋅ and ⋅ η H S − are respectively the charging and discharging efficiency of thermal energy storage equipment.

 2.2.3.3 Photovoltaic system model

The output of photovoltaic power generation is related to light intensity, and its output model is specifically described as: P P V , t = P P V rated  α t α rated  0 ≤ α t ≤ α rated  P P V rated  α t > α rated  where, P PV,t is the actual power of the PV during period t, P P V rated  is the rated power of the PV, is the actual light intensity during period t, and α rated is the rated light intensity.

 3 Evaluation indicators for park level MECS

This article suggests evaluation indicators to assess the sustainability, efficiency, and reliability of the park’s MECS. The proposed indicators include the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, comprehensive energy utilization rate, and energy shortage expectation.

3.1 Comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate

The comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate represents the proportion of renewable energy generated by the park’s MECS compared to the energy demanded by its users. A higher comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate signifies a larger share of renewable energy utilized by the park’s MECS, leading to increased energy sustainability. This rate can be quantified as follows: μ C E S R = E res E e + E h v K + v L H V E g where, μ CESR represents the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, E e, E h , and E g represent the e electricity, heat, and natural gas output f from the MECS in the park, v LHV representing the low calorific value of natural gas combustion, v K represents the unit conversion coefficient of electricity and heat energy, and E res represents the electricity produced by renewable energy equipment.

 3.2 Comprehensive energy utilization rate

The comprehensive energy utilization rate serves as a crucial metric for assessing the operational efficiency of the park-level MECS. A higher comprehensive energy utilization rate implies reduced energy loss and improved operational efficiency of the system. This rate can be expressed as follows: μ CEUR  = E e + E h / v k + v L l v E g + E e s E res  + E e b + v L H V E g b where, μ CEUR is the comprehensive energy utilization rate, E e b is the electricity purchased by the park level MECS from the superior power grid, E e s is the electricity sold by the park level MECS from the superior power grid, and E g b is the natural gas purchased by the park level MECS from the superior natural gas grid.

 3.3 Energy shortage expectations

The energy shortage expectation of Class β energy refers to the expected value of Class β energy shortage in the park energy internet, taking into account the probability of component failure in the event of N-1 failure of energy equipment. The energy shortage expectation of Class β energy is an important indicator to measure the reliability of the Internet supply of Class β energy in the park. The smaller the energy shortage expectation of Class β energy, the smaller the load of Class β energy that needs to be cut off in case of N-1 failure of energy equipment, and the higher the reliability of the Internet supply of Class β energy in the park.

 4 Double layer optimization configuration model

This paper takes into account the above evaluation indicators and constructs a two-layer optimization configuration model for the park level multi energy complementary system, as shown in Figure 2.

Dual layer optimization configuration model for park level MECS.

The upper level planning model takes minimizing the annual comprehensive cost as the optimization objective, and the decision variables are the installation type and quantity of energy equipment; the lower level planning model takes the minimization of typical daily operating costs as the optimization objective under specific types and quantities of energy equipment installation. The decision variable is the scheduling situation of energy equipment, and the operating costs are transmitted to the upper level to calculate the upper level objective function value.

4.1 Upper level planning model

The objective function of the upper level planning model is the annual comprehensive cost, expressed as min C = C i w v + 365 ∑ s = 1 S p s C o p where, C is the annual comprehensive cost, C inv is the equivalent annual investment cost of all equipment, p s is the probability of the occurrence of typical day s, S is the total number of selected typical days, and C op is the operating cost of the system under typical day s. C i n v = ∑ τ ∑ k I τ k C τ i n v η τ c r f where, I τk is the 0–1 logical variable indicating the installation status of the k τ class of energy equipment (including class i energy conversion equipment, class j energy storage equipment, and class 1 renewable energy equipment). When installing this equipment, I τk = 1, otherwise I kk = 0 , C τ inv  are the investment cost of class energy equipment, and η τ crf  is the equivalent annual fund recovery rate of class τ energy equipment. The specific description is as follows η r c r f = r r + 1 y r r + 1 y r − 1 where, r is the discount factor, and y r is the service life of Class τ energy equipment.

C op specifically includes operation and maintenance costs C 1, fuel costs C 2, electricity trading costs C 3, carbon emissions tax C 4, and energy deficiency penalty costs C 5.

The specific description is as follows C o p = C 1 + C 2 + C 3 + C 4 + C 5 C 1 = ∑ i ∑ k ∑ t o i E C P i k , t i n + ∑ j ∑ k ∑ t o j E S P j k , t dis + P j k , t c h + ∑ l ∑ k ∑ t o k RES P l k , t C 2 = ∑ t c t b , e P t b , e Δ t − ∑ t c t s , e P t s , e Δ t C 4 = ∑ t c c a e P t b , e Δ t + ∑ t c c a g P t b , g Δ t C 5 = λ e E E E S e + λ h E E E S h where, P i k , t i n is the input power of the kth i-class energy conversion device during the t period; P j k , t c h and P j k , t d i s are the charging and discharging power of the kth class j energy storage equipment during the t period, respectively; P lk,t s the output power of the kth Class 1 renewable energy equipment during the t period; o i E C , o l R E S and are the operating and maintenance costs of Class I energy conversion equipment, Class J energy storage equipment, and Class I renewable energy equipment, respectively; P t b , e ⋅ P t s , e and c t b , e , c t s , e respectively represent the purchase/sale power and purchase/sale electricity price of the park’s energy internet and power grid during time t ; P t b , g is the gas purchasing power of the park’s energy internet during time t; c fiel is the price of natural gas; a e and a g are the carbon emission coefficients of electricity and natural gas, respectively; c c is the carbon tax price; λ e and λ h are the penalty costs for electrical and thermal load interruptions, respectively; E E E S e and E E E S h represent the expected shortfall in electrical and thermal energy, respectively.

 4.2 Lower level planning model

The lower level planning model aims to minimize the operating cost of a typical daily park level MECS, specifically represented as min C o p

In addition to meeting the operational constraints of the park level MECS, this paper also takes into account the constraints of the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, utilization rate, and shortage expectations, which are as follows:

4.2.1 Energy and power balance constraints

The operation of a park level MECS requires maintaining a balance of energy power among electricity, heat, and natural gas, expressed as: P t b , e − P t s , e + ∑ l ∑ k P l k , t + ∑ i ∑ k P i k , t o u t , e = ∑ i ∑ k P i k , t n , e + ∑ j ∑ k P j k , t c h m , e − ∑ j ∑ k P j k , t d i s , e + P t L , e ∑ i ∑ k P i k , t o u t , h = ∑ j ∑ k P j k , t c h , h − ∑ j ∑ k P j k , t d i s , h + P t L , h P t b , g = P t L , g + ∑ i ∑ k P i k , t i n , g where, P i k , t in,e  , P i k , t i n , g , and P i k , t out, e , , P i k , t out  , h respectively represent the input power, natural gas power, output power, and thermal power of the kth class i energy conversion equipment during the t period; P j k , t d i s , e . P j k c h , e , P j k , t d i s , g , and P j k c h , g are the charging and discharging, and charging and discharging heat powers of the kth jth class energy storage equipment during the t period, respectively; P t L , e . P t L , h and P t L , g are the electricity, heat, and natural gas loads during time t.

 4.2.2 Operational constraints of energy storage equipment

Energy storage equipment includes electrical energy storage equipment and thermal energy storage equipment. Energy storage devices can only supplement or release energy during the same period, and the power of charging and discharging energy is limited by the maximum power of charging and discharging energy and the current remaining capacity. The constraints it needs to meet are specifically expressed as: 0 ≤ P j k , t c h ≤ u j k , t P j max 0 ≤ P j k , t d i s ≤ P j max − u j k , t P j max S j k , 0 = S j k , T S j k min ≤ S j k , t ≤ S j k max where, P j max is the maximum charging and discharging energy power of the j-type energy storage device, S jk,0 and S jk,T are the energy stored by the kth j-type energy storage device during the initial and end optimization periods, respectively; S j k max and S j k min are the upper and lower limits of the energy stored by the kth j-type energy storage device, respectively; u jk,t is a binary variable that represents the charging state of the kth j-type class energy storage device during the time period t. The charging state is u jk,t = 1, otherwise u jk,t = 0.

 4.2.3 Operational constraints of energy conversion equipment

Energy conversion equipment includes cogeneration, gas boiler and electric bioler. The output of energy conversion equipment is limited by its own installed capacity, and the operation of energy conversion equipment is also constrained by climbing, specifically represented as: 0 ≤ P i k , t i n ≤ I i k P i rated  − r i Δ t ≤ P i k , t i n − P i k , t − 1 i n ≤ r i Δ t where, P i rated  is the Nameplate capacity of class i energy konversion equipment; r i is the maximum climbing rate of Class I energy conversion equipment.

 4.2.4 Energy reserve constraints

The backup constraints of energy conversion equipment are expressed as: R i k , t β ≤ I i k P i rated  , β − P i k , t β 0 ≤ R i k , t β ≤ I i k r i β where, P i k , t β and R i k , t β are the output power and backup power of the kth class i energy conversion equipment class energy during the t period, respectively; P i rated,  , β provides the rated power of Class I energy conversion equipment for Class β energy.

The backup constraints of energy storage devices are expressed as: R j k , t ≤ I j k P j max η j d i s + P j k c h − P j k d i s 0 ≤ R j k , t ≤ S j k , t η j d i s − S j k min η j d i s where, r i β is the maximum climbing rate of Class I energy conversion equipment providing Class I energy; η j dis  is the energy release efficiency of Class J energy storage equipment; R jk,t is the backup power of the kth class j energy storage device during the t period.

 4.2.5 Energy interaction power constraints

The interaction power between the park level MECS and the superior power grid, natural gas network, needs to meet certain constraints, and the interaction power during the same time period is unidirectional, specifically represented as: 0 ≤ P t b , e ≤ u t b , e P max b , e 0 ≤ P t s , e ≤ P max s , e − u t b , e P max s , e 0 ≤ P t b , g ≤ P max b , g where, P max b , g , P max b , e and P max s , e respectively represent the maximum purchasing power rate of the energy internet in the park, the maximum purchasing and selling power with the upper power grid; The state variable of the park’s energy internet electricity purchase u t b , e = 1 is the state variable of the park’s energy internet electricity purchase u t b , e = 0

4.2.6 Constraints on comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate

In order to meet the energy sustainability requirements of the park level MECS, the corresponding constraints are expressed as: ω C E S R ≥ ω C E S R min where, ω C E S R min is the lower limit of the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate.

 4.2.7 Constraints on comprehensive energy utilization rate

In order to achieve the required efficiency of the park level MECS, the corresponding constraints are expressed as: ω C E U R ≥ ω C E U R min where, ω C E U R min is the lower limit of the comprehensive energy utilization rate.

 4.2.8 Energy deficiency expectation constraint

This paper considers the N-1 failure of energy equipment, and the probability of only energy equipment failure is p γ β = I γ p γ F R Π γ ′ ≠ γ 1 − I γ ′ p γ ′ F R ≈ I γ p γ F R where, p γ ′ F R is the failure rate of the energy equipment γ′ (including the failed energy equipment); I γ and I γ′ are 0–1 logical variables that indicate the installation status of energy equipment and energy equipment E that have failed, respectively.

Introduce the binary logical variable φ γ , t β to indicate whether there is an energy like power shortage. If there is a Class β energy power shortage, then φ γ , t β = 1 , otherwise φ γ , t β = 0 . φ γ , t β satisfies the following constraints: P ̂ γ , t β = P γ , t β − ∑ γ ′ ≠ γ R γ ′ , t β > 0 φ γ , t β = 1 P γ , t β − ∑ γ ′ ≠ γ R γ ′ , t β ≤ 0 φ γ , t β = 0 where, P ̂ γ , t β is the difference between the power provided by energy equipment β during time t when it interrupts to provide Class γ energy and the total backup power provided by all non faulty energy equipment for Class β energy; P γ , t β refers to the power of Class γ′ energy provided by the energy equipment F during the t period when it is interrupted; γ provides backup power for Class β energy for energy equipment H during time t.

When only energy equipment γ fails, the power shortage P ̂ γ , t L , β of Class β energy during time t is: P ̂ γ , t L , β = φ γ , t β P ̂ γ , t β

Considering − ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β ≤ P ̂ γ , t β ≤ ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β where, P γ ′ rated,  β is the rated power of Class β energy provided by energy equipment γ′.

φ γ , t β satisfies the following constraints: P ̂ γ , t β ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β ≤ φ γ , t β ≤ P ̂ γ , t β + ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β

Furthermore, P ̂ γ , t β can be simplified as: P ̂ γ , t β = P γ , t β − ∑ γ ′ ≠ γ Σ R γ ′ , t β = P γ , t β + R γ , t β − Σ γ R γ ′ , t β = P γ , t β + R γ , t β − R t β where, R γ , t β is the backup power of the energy equipment providing class energy during period t, and R t β is the total backup power of class energy during period t, expressed as R t β = ∑ γ ′ R γ ′ , t β

Considering the probability of failure of energy equipment, the expected energy shortage for Class β energy is expressed as: E E E S β = ∑ γ ∑ t p γ β P ̂ γ , t L , β Δ t

The simultaneous equation yields E E S S β = ∑ γ ∑ t I γ p γ F R φ γ , t β P γ , t β + R γ , t β − R t β

Remark 1: This equation is a nonlinear equation, making the lower level programming model a nonlinear model. In order to get a mixed certificate Linear programming (MILP) model that is easy to solve, this paper uses equivalent transformation method to linearize it.

Proof: Equivalent Transformation Linearization Method

Introduce two new variables for equivalent replacement: μ γ , t β = I γ φ γ , t β v γ , t β = p γ F R P γ , T β + R γ , t β − R t β where, μ γ , t β is a binary variable and v γ , t β is a continuous variable, meeting the following constraints: 0 ≤ μ γ , t β ≤ I γ I γ + φ γ , t β − 1 ≤ μ γ , t β ≤ φ γ , t β

For the convenience of description, it is simplified as: π γ , t β = I γ p γ F R φ γ , t β P γ , t β + R γ , t β − R t β = μ γ , t β × v γ , t β

In order to linearize the above equation, it can be described as: μ γ , t β × v ̲ γ t β ≤ π γ , t β ≤ μ γ , t β × v ̄ γ , t β v γ , t β − v ̄ γ , t β × 1 − μ γ , t β ≤ π γ , t β ≤ v γ , t β − v ̲ γ , t β × 1 − μ γ , t β where, ν ̄ γ , t β and v ̲ γ , t β are the upper and lower limits of ν γ , t β , denoted as: v ̄ γ , t β = p γ F R × P γ rated  , β v ̲ γ , t β = − p γ F R × Σ γ ′ P γ ′ rated  , β

The simultaneous equation yields μ γ , t β × p γ F R × − ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ r a t e d , β ≤ π γ , t β ≤ μ γ , t β × p γ F R × P γ r a t e d , β v γ , t β − p γ F R × P γ rated , β × 1 − μ γ , t β ≤ π γ , t β ≤ v γ , t β − p γ F R × − ∑ γ ′ P γ ′ rared , β × 1 − μ γ , t β

From this, π γ , t β can be transformed into a linear model through the above equation, and E E E S β can be represented as: E E E S β = ∑ γ ∑ t π γ , t β Δ t

The corresponding energy deficiency expectation constraint is: E E E S β ≤ E ̄ E E S β where, E ̄ E E S β is the expected upper limit of energy shortage for Class β energy.

 4.3 Catastrophic Genetic Algorithm-CPLEX hybrid strategy

In the above park level MECS planning model, the upper level planning model transfers the energy equipment configuration plan to the lower level. The lower level planning model optimizes the coordinated operation of the park level MECS based on the energy equipment configuration plan, and returns the operating cost to the upper level. The upper level then calculates the comprehensive cost based on the operating cost returned by the lower level, Optimize the installation type and quantity of energy equipment in the park level MECS.

Cataclysmic genetic algorithm (CGA) is based on genetic algorithm and introduces a mutation operator to avoid the population falling into local optima. It has advantages such as wide applicability, strong optimization ability, and good convergence. This article uses it to solve the configuration problem of energy equipment in the upper planning layer. If there is no new optimal solution every 10 generations and 4 consecutive generations, a mutation operation is carried out to retain the optimal individual and randomly generate other individuals. CPLEX is suitable for solving MILP, with advantages such as fast solving speed and strong robustness. In this paper, it is used to solve the optimization problem of the energy internet in the park in the lower running layer. A lower running layer model is constructed on the software, and the CPLEX solver is called to easily achieve the solution. The solution process for the hybrid strategy is as follows:

Algorithm: Catastrophic Genetic Algorithm - CPLEX Hybrid Strategy

• Data initialization: Input data on photovoltaic lighting and electrical, thermal, and gas loads.

1. Make the population algebra g = 0 to generate the initial population;

2. Determine whether the catastrophic conditions are met. If so, perform a population catastrophic operation and perform CPLEX to solve the lower level programming model; If not, proceed directly to CPLEX to solve the lower level programming model.

3. Calculate the objective function value and fitness value of the upper level planning;

4. Determine whether it converges or reaches the maximum algebraic value, and if so, obtain the optimal configuration plan; If not, perform population selection, crossover, and mutation operations until g = g+1, and then return to step 2.

Remark 2: The steps for CPLEX to solve the lower level planning model include: inputting the capacity of energy devices, constructing a park level MECS operation optimization model, and calling the CPLEX solver to solve.

 5 Example analysis

This paper takes a typical park level MECS as the research object, and its structure is shown in Figure 1. The typical daily load curve is shown in Figures 3–5. Among them, the probability of typical days appearing in spring and autumn is 45%, and the probability of typical days appearing in summer and winter is both 20%. This paper adopts a three stage electricity price from peak to flat to valley, with a peak hour electricity price of 1.15 CNY/(kW⋅h), a regular electricity price of 0.85 CNY/(kW⋅h), and a valley hour electricity price of 0.35 CNY/(kW⋅h). The electricity price curve is shown in Figure 6.

Typical daily energy load curve in spring and autumn.

Typical daily energy load curve in summer.

Typical daily energy load curve in winter.

Electricity price curve.

The price of natural gas is 3.25 CNY/m 3. The CO 2 emission coefficients of natural gas and traditional power plants are 1.88 kg/m 3 and 0.82 kg/(kW⋅h), respectively, with a carbon tax price of 0.3 CNY/kg. The optional energy equipment parameters are shown in Tables 1–3. Optimization interval is 0.05 s.

Energy conversion equipment parameters.

Energy conversion equipment Capacity (kW) Investment costs (CNY/kW) Operation and maintenance costs (CNY/kW) Conversion efficiency Ramp rate (kW/h) Lifetime (years) Probability of failure (%)
Electricity Heat
Cogeneration 1 2,000 4,450 0.155 0.35 0.45 1,200 25 7
Cogeneration 2 3,800 4,000 0.154 0.42 0.46 2,400 25 5
Gas Boiler 1 1,000 2,580 0.038 0.71 620 20 4.5
Gas Boiler 2 1,900 1,820 0.038 0.74 1,180 20 2
Electric boiler 1 1,000 2,410 0.025 0.70 780 20 3.8
Electric boiler 2 1,950 1,700 0.025 0.76 1,590 20 1.8

Energy storage equipment parameters.

Energy storage equipment Electricity storage Heat storage Energy storage equipment Electricity storage Heat storage
Investment costs (CNY/kW) 580 460 Upper and lower limits of energy (kW⋅ h) 2100/20 2200/20
Operation and maintenance costs (CNY/kW) 0.001 0.001 Lifetime (years) 10 20
Charging and discharging energy efficiency 90% 90% Probability of failure 1% 1%
Power cap (kW) 510 500

Renewable energy equipment parameters.

Renewable energy equipment Photovoltaicarry
Capacity (kW) 1,000
Investment costs (CNY/kW) 11,200
Operation and maintenance costs (yuan/kW) 0.025
Lifetime (years) 20
Probability of failure 1%

The three indicators in this article are in a progressive relationship, which requires considering the comprehensive energy utilization rate and reliability indicators on the basis of meeting the comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate. Therefore, this article only considers four application scenarios, as shown in Table 4. Through simulation verification, the configuration quantity of energy equipment in different scenarios is shown in Table 5, and the optimization results in different scenarios are shown in Table 6. The optimization configuration model in Scenario 1 does not consider any constraints of evaluation indicators. The heat load is jointly supplied by CHP, GB, and EB; The electrical load is mainly supplied jointly by CHP and PV. Meanwhile, the EB capacity of the park’s energy internet configuration is smaller than that of CHP and GB, because the cost of configuring EB and using electricity for heating is higher than that of configuring CHP or GB and using natural gas for heating.

Comparison of four optimization Configuration scenarios.

Scene Comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate Comprehensive energy utilization rate Energy eficiency expectation
1 × × ×
2 √ × ×
3 √ √ ×
4 √ √ √

Configuration quantity of energy equipment in different scenarios.

Scene CHP1 CHP2 GB1 GB2 EB1 EB2 ES HS PV
1 0 3 4 1 1 0 11 6 14
2 0 3 0 2 0 2 11 9 17
3 0 3 0 2 1 2 10 5 17
4 0 3 1 2 0 2 11 7 17

Optimization results under different scenarios.

Scene 1 2 3 4
Equivalent annual investment cost (10,000 CNY) 1,687.4 1932.4 1933.2 1952.0
Annual operating costs (10,000 CNY) 4,152.4 3,963.2 3,960.3 3,930.8
Annual penalty costs (10,000 CNY) 55.0 28.5 66.2 0
Annual comprehensive costs (10,000 CNY) 5,980.7 5,923.4 5,958.2 5,878.9
Expected power shortage (kW⋅ h) 26,560 34,492 30,378 0
Expectation thermal energy deficiency (MJ) 86,399 80,807 88,372 0

Compared to Scenario 1 and Scenario 2, Scenario 2 is equipped with 3 more PVs to meet the requirements of comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate. Additionally, one more EB2 device is configured to absorb the surplus electricity generated during daytime PV power generation peaks, while reducing the capacity of GB and increasing the capacity of HS to meet thermal load balance. The equivalent annual investment cost of Scenario 2 is greater than Scenario 1, but the PV installation capacity of Scenario 2 is larger. The energy input of the park level MECS from the superior energy network under Scenario 2 is smaller, so the annual operating cost of Scenario 2 is smaller than Scenario 1. Overall, the annual comprehensive cost of Scenario 2 is greater than Scenario 1.

Comparing Scenario 2 and Scenario 3, in order to meet the requirements of comprehensive energy utilization, the system reduces the configuration and use of ES and HS, thereby reducing energy loss during the charging and discharging process. At the same time, increasing the configuration of EB capacity to directly consume the electricity generated by photovoltaic production reduces the losses in the ES energy storage process. Due to increased constraints on comprehensive energy utilization, the annual comprehensive cost of scenario 3 is greater than that of scenario 2.

Compared to Scenario 3 and Scenario 4, the expected electrical and thermal energy deficits for Scenario 3 are 30378 kW⋅h and 88372 MJ, respectively, while the expected electrical and thermal energy deficits for Scenario 4 are both 0. After considering the reliability indicators, the system has added 1 ES, 2 HS, and 1 GB to provide sufficient backup and reduce the penalty cost of cutting off the load in the event of N-1 faults in energy equipment. At the same time, reduce the configuration of one EB to meet the balance of thermal load. It can be seen that after considering the reliability indicators, the equivalent annual investment cost of the system has increased, but the annual operating cost and annual penalty cost have both decreased, overall reducing the overall cost.

In summary, after considering the evaluation indicators of comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate and comprehensive energy utilization rate, the energy sustainability and efficiency of the system can meet the requirements, but correspondingly reduce the economic efficiency of the system; After considering the evaluation indicators of energy deficiency expectations, the reliability of the system can meet the requirements while also improving its economy. It can be seen that the proposed two-layer optimization configuration model, which takes into account multiple evaluation indicators, can pursue the economy of system configuration while meeting the requirements of energy sustainability, efficiency, and reliability.

 6 Conclusion

This paper constructs a multi indicator evaluation system for park level MECS, taking into account various constraints, and establishes a two-layer optimization configuration model for park level MECS. Through simulation analysis, the following conclusions are drawn: the proposed park level MECS optimization configuration model can fully consider the impact of system operating costs on energy equipment configuration, and the configuration plan is more reasonable; On the other hand, considering the constraints of comprehensive energy self-sufficiency rate, comprehensive energy utilization rate, and expected energy shortage indicators, the configuration plan takes into account various needs such as economy and energy sustainability. Different degrees of indicator constraints have different economic impacts on the configuration results. The stricter the constraints, the greater the annual comprehensive cost of the system. Therefore, in the context of energy marketization, the construction and operation of park level MECS can be guided by economy, and government departments can constrain and guide them by formulating different evaluation indicators.

 Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary Material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.

 Author contributions

YW: Writing–original draft. JC: Writing–original draft. XZ: Writing–original draft. KH: Writing–original draft. LJ: Writing–original draft.

 Funding

The authors declare that no financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

 Conflict of interest

Authors YW, JC, XZ, and LJ were employed by State Grid Ningbo Electric Supply Company Ningbo. Author KH was employed by Glory Property Branch of Ningbo Power Transmission and Transformation Construction Co., Ltd. Ningbo.

 Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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