In the ever-evolving landscape of energy systems, a groundbreaking study led by Jingyang Yun from Shanghai Jiao Tong University is making waves. The research, published in the Chinese Society for Electrical Engineering (CSEE) Journal of Power and Energy Systems, tackles a critical challenge in the integration of electricity and gas systems, particularly in the context of increasing wind power penetration.
The study focuses on improving the load restoration ability of integrated electricity-gas systems (IEGS), a crucial aspect of the Energy Internet. As Yun explains, “The increasing penetration of wind power has posed some difficulties to IEGS load restoration. Our goal was to develop a model that could incorporate operational risks associated with wind power output uncertainty and optimize load restoration schemes.”
The research introduces a two-stage IEGS restoration model based on distributionally robust optimization (DRO). This model not only explores the supporting role of natural gas system (NGS) operation flexibility but also quantitatively analyzes it. By constructing a Wasserstein metric-based ambiguity set of wind power forecast deviation, the model can handle the uncertainty of wind power output and consider flexible reserve capacity (FRC) allocation and deployment constraints.
One of the most significant aspects of this research is its practical applicability. The proposed model can realize reasonable scheduling of wind power, automatically determine the allocation of required FRC, and optimize load restoration schemes. Moreover, it can be converted into a mixed integer linear programming problem, making it directly solvable.
In the case study, the advantages of the proposed model were compared with three conventional restoration models based on two test systems. The results demonstrated the superiority of the new model, highlighting its potential for real-world applications.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the energy sector continues to grapple with the challenges of integrating renewable energy sources, models like the one developed by Yun and his team could play a pivotal role in ensuring the stability and reliability of energy systems. By optimizing load restoration and incorporating the flexibility of NGS, this model could help mitigate the risks associated with wind power uncertainty, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and efficient energy infrastructure.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, research like this is crucial. It not only advances our understanding of complex systems but also provides practical tools for addressing real-world challenges. In the words of Yun, “This research is a step towards a more robust and flexible energy system, capable of integrating renewable energy sources and ensuring reliable energy supply.”
The study’s publication in the CSEE Journal of Power and Energy Systems underscores its significance and relevance to the global energy community. As we look to the future, the insights and tools provided by this research could shape the development of more resilient and efficient energy systems, benefiting both industry and society as a whole.