A two-stage linear programming optimization framework for isolated hybrid microgrids in a rural context: The case study of the “El Espino” community

Sergio Balderrama, Francesco Lombardi, Fabio Riva, Walter Canedo, Emanuela Colombo and Sylvain Quoilin

Energy, 2019, vol. 188, issue C

Abstract: Efforts towards ensuring clean and affordable electricity for all have been progressing slowly in rural, off grid areas of developing countries. In this context, hybrid microgrids may offer reliable and potentially clean electricity for isolated locations. Nevertheless, the process of planning and operation of these systems faces several challenges, often due to the uncertainties related to the renewable resources and to the stochastic nature of electricity consumption in rural contexts. This paper tackles this problem and contributes to the literature in bridging the gap between field practices and two-stage stochastic modeling approaches by identifying an open-source modeling framework which is then applied to real local data. As reference case-study, we consider a microgrid built in 2015 in Bolivia. Overall, the optimal system results from a compromise between the Net Present Cost, the peak capacity installed and the flexibility (to balance variable generation). Different approaches to size isolated microgrids are tested, with the conclusion that methods accounting for the uncertainty in both demand and renewable generation may lead to a more robust configuration with little impacts on the final cost for the community.

Keywords: Microgrids; Rural electrification; Isolated energy systems; Energy; Open energy modeling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (13)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:188:y:2019:i:c:s0360544219317682

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.116073

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