In the pursuit of carbon neutrality, the energy sector is grappling with the challenge of integrating large-scale wind and solar resources into power systems. A recent study published in the *Journal of Shanghai Jiao Tong University* offers a promising approach to optimize the operation of complementary energy systems, potentially revolutionizing how we balance renewable energy sources.
The research, led by XIA Jinlei from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and TANG Yijie from Yalong River Hydropower Development Company, focuses on the Yalong River Basin, a region rich in hydro, wind, and solar resources. The study introduces a novel strategy for the optimal operation of a cascade hydro-wind-solar-pumped storage complementary system, emphasizing the flexible regulation capabilities of hydropower.
“As the capacity of wind and solar power integration increases, the power system requires more flexible resources to ensure secure operation,” XIA Jinlei explains. The study addresses this need by establishing steady-state models for hybrid pumped storage stations, which can mitigate the high costs and site selection challenges of independent pumped storage.
To enhance predictive accuracy, the researchers employed the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to optimize the parameters of long short-term memory (LSTM) models, which are used to forecast wind and solar power output. This innovative approach overcomes the limitations of traditional models, providing more reliable predictions.
The study also develops a multi-objective optimal dispatching model that considers both economic benefits and flexible regulation margins. The normal boundary intersection (NBI) method is used to solve the multi-objective problem, ensuring an even distribution of Pareto optimal solutions. “Our approach not only balances system profits but also fully exploits the flexible regulation potential of the system,” says XIA Jinlei.
The researchers conducted case studies based on the actual conditions of the Yalong River Basin, validating the effectiveness of their proposed model. The results demonstrate that the approach ensures stable operation of the system while maximizing the use of renewable energy resources.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. By optimizing the operation of complementary energy systems, the study provides a roadmap for large-scale integration and consumption of wind and solar resources. This could lead to more stable and efficient power systems, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.
As the world moves towards carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, the findings of this study offer valuable insights for energy professionals and policymakers. The research highlights the importance of flexible regulation capabilities in ensuring the secure operation of power systems, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future.