Complex energy networks optimization for renewables exploitation and efficiency increase

In the next years energy grids are expected to become increasingly complex, due to the integration between traditional fossil-fueled production systems, renewable energy generators and storage technologies. In order to maximize renewables exploitation, to minimize the economic costs and to optimize the generations systems operation, a possible solution is represented by the integration of electrical grids and district heating networks. To this purpose, the energy systems typology and size optimization, as well as the networks' optimal management, are the challenges aspects. In this context, the aim of this paper is the optimization of both the energy generation mix and the yearly operation of a complex energy network including electrical, thermal and cooling distribution. With this purpose, in this study a real district heating network currently served by a cogeneration unit and four natural gas boilers has been considered. Several scenarios have been simulated considering the addition of different energy systems - such as heat pumps, renewable generators (electrical and/or thermal) and cooling machines - and a whole year of operation has been analyzed with an in-house developed software, based on genetic algorithms and aimed at the minimization of the total cost of energy production. The results have been compared to the reference case, representing the current configuration and operation of the network, allowing to define the optimal solution, which enables to reduce the yearly operation costs of the production plant.