Energy transition and decarbonization pose significant challenges to isolated distribution networks, historically dependent on conventional fuel-fired generation. Lacking external control resources, these systems must face several operational issues due to the increasing integration of intermittent energy resources. This paper focuses on the development of a predictive dispatch problem for optimal energy resource management and operating reserve allocation in isolated networks. A key aspect of this study is the integration of reserve constraints within the designed predictive control. In this regard, the paper evaluates two different probability-based methods for reserve assessment, examining their performance under different levels of RES integration and conservativeness. Furthermore, the paper addresses different ways of allocating storage resources in the mathematical formulation of the proposed problem. To validate the impact of the discussed reserve assessment and allocation methods on the predictive control's effectiveness, a comprehensive testing algorithm is presented. This algorithm allows a thorough evaluation of the performance of various predictive control designs, including both static day-ahead and recursive dispatch approaches. The algorithm also integrates real-time system behavior, capturing the interplay between predictive scheduling and actual system evolution, and providing a realistic assessment of overall system performance. The performed analysis includes network simulations based on a real-world case study of a small Italian island's distribution network, characterized by significant seasonal load variations and increasing RES penetration scenarios. The analysis of test results seeks to provide valuable insights to practitioners, enabling them to design and implement analogous optimal control strategies for the efficient operation of isolated power grids.
Formulation and test of a predictive dispatch problem for the optimal management of energy resources and operating reserve in isolated distribution networks / Menga, M.; Iurlaro, C.; Cassettino, G.; Bruno, S.; La Scala, M.. - In: SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, GRIDS AND NETWORKS. - ISSN 2352-4677. - 43:(2025). [10.1016/j.segan.2025.101842]
Formulation and test of a predictive dispatch problem for the optimal management of energy resources and operating reserve in isolated distribution networks
Menga M.;Iurlaro C.;Cassettino G.;Bruno S.;La Scala M.
2025
Abstract
Energy transition and decarbonization pose significant challenges to isolated distribution networks, historically dependent on conventional fuel-fired generation. Lacking external control resources, these systems must face several operational issues due to the increasing integration of intermittent energy resources. This paper focuses on the development of a predictive dispatch problem for optimal energy resource management and operating reserve allocation in isolated networks. A key aspect of this study is the integration of reserve constraints within the designed predictive control. In this regard, the paper evaluates two different probability-based methods for reserve assessment, examining their performance under different levels of RES integration and conservativeness. Furthermore, the paper addresses different ways of allocating storage resources in the mathematical formulation of the proposed problem. To validate the impact of the discussed reserve assessment and allocation methods on the predictive control's effectiveness, a comprehensive testing algorithm is presented. This algorithm allows a thorough evaluation of the performance of various predictive control designs, including both static day-ahead and recursive dispatch approaches. The algorithm also integrates real-time system behavior, capturing the interplay between predictive scheduling and actual system evolution, and providing a realistic assessment of overall system performance. The performed analysis includes network simulations based on a real-world case study of a small Italian island's distribution network, characterized by significant seasonal load variations and increasing RES penetration scenarios. The analysis of test results seeks to provide valuable insights to practitioners, enabling them to design and implement analogous optimal control strategies for the efficient operation of isolated power grids.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.

