In a significant stride towards optimizing renewable energy communities (RECs), researchers have developed advanced energy management strategies that could reshape how local energy is produced, shared, and consumed. Published in the International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems, the study led by Tommaso Robbiano from the University of Genoa introduces a novel approach to managing RECs, potentially offering substantial benefits for the energy sector.
Robbiano and his team have implemented Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) models to create Energy Management Systems (EMSs) for aggregators overseeing RECs. These communities, which include renewable energy sources, battery storage systems, and electric vehicle charging points, aim to maximize energy sharing while minimizing battery degradation. “The centralised EMS managed by the aggregator aims to maximise the energy shared within the REC,” Robbiano explains. “This not only enhances local energy independence but also reduces the overall strain on the grid.”
The study considers various scenarios, including different seasons and user behaviors, to investigate the impact on energy sharing mechanisms. The results are promising, with a Shared Energy Index (SEI) reaching up to 92.42% during a week in May. This indicates that optimal operation of distributed energy technologies can significantly improve REC performance.
The research also delves into the trade-off between maximizing shared energy and minimizing battery degradation, as well as the influence of cooperative versus non-cooperative user behavior on global energy sharing. “Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing robust and efficient energy management strategies,” Robbiano notes.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. By optimizing energy sharing within RECs, aggregators can enhance local energy resilience, reduce dependency on external grids, and minimize energy costs for participants. This approach also supports the integration of renewable energy sources, promoting a more sustainable and decentralized energy system.
As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the findings from this study could shape future developments in REC management. By leveraging advanced modeling techniques and considering various operational scenarios, aggregators can better navigate the complexities of local energy markets and drive the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
Robbiano’s work, affiliated with the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Telecommunication Engineering and Naval Architecture at the University of Genoa, represents a significant step forward in the field of renewable energy management. As the energy sector continues to innovate, the insights gained from this research will be invaluable in shaping the future of local energy communities.