In the dynamic world of renewable energy, microgrids are emerging as a pivotal solution for enhancing grid stability and efficiency. These localized grids, capable of operating independently or in conjunction with the main grid, are increasingly integrating battery energy storage systems (BESS) to optimize power management. However, the optimization of BESS in microgrids has long been a challenge, often leading to high operational costs and reduced battery lifespan. Enter Gang Zhang, a researcher from the School of Electrical Engineering at Xi’an University of Technology, who has developed a groundbreaking two-stage rolling optimization operation strategy for microgrids, specifically tailored to consider the state of battery energy storage units (BESU).
Zhang’s innovative approach, detailed in a recent study published in the International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems, addresses the critical issues of poor optimization and high life loss in BESS. The strategy is designed to minimize the number of unqualified periods of grid-connected power scheduling and fluctuations, while also reducing the cumulative charging and discharging throughput of BESS. This is achieved through a sophisticated multi-objective exponential distribution optimizer (MOEDO) that ensures the microgrid operates at peak efficiency.
The first stage of Zhang’s strategy involves establishing a microgrid grid-connected instruction set optimization model. This model is meticulously crafted to achieve three primary objectives: minimizing the number of unqualified periods of grid-connected power scheduling, minimizing the number of unqualified periods of grid-connected power fluctuations, and minimizing the cumulative charging and discharging throughput of BESS. “By focusing on these key areas,” Zhang explains, “we can significantly improve the overall performance and longevity of the BESS, making microgrids more reliable and cost-effective.”
The second stage delves deeper into the intricacies of BESS operation, considering factors such as the number of charge and discharge state conversions, state of charge (SOC) consistency, and charge and discharge efficiency. Here, a BESS power allocation strategy is designed, comprising a unit grouping module, a unit screening module, and a power allocation module. The energy valley optimizer (EVO) is employed to fine-tune the allocation scheme, ensuring that the BESS operates at its optimal capacity.
The culmination of Zhang’s research is a multi-dimensional evaluation system for microgrid operation results. This system, weighted using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), provides a comprehensive assessment of the microgrid’s performance. Simulation experiments conducted with actual microgrid parameters from a specific area have shown that Zhang’s strategy can reduce the number of BESS charge and discharge state transitions, improve SOC consistency, and enhance charge and discharge efficiency. “The results are promising,” Zhang notes, “and indicate that our strategy can significantly improve the microgrid’s grid-connected performance, making it a more viable solution for commercial and industrial applications.”
The implications of Zhang’s research are far-reaching. As microgrids become more prevalent, the need for efficient and reliable BESS optimization will only grow. Zhang’s two-stage rolling optimization operation strategy offers a robust solution that could revolutionize the way microgrids are managed, potentially leading to substantial cost savings and improved grid stability. This breakthrough could pave the way for future developments in the field, encouraging further innovation and adoption of microgrid technologies.
For energy professionals, the potential commercial impacts are immense. Enhanced BESS optimization means longer battery lifespans, reduced operational costs, and more reliable power supply. This could attract more investments in microgrid projects, driving growth in the renewable energy sector. As the world transitions towards a more sustainable energy future, Zhang’s research provides a critical piece of the puzzle, ensuring that microgrids can operate at their full potential.