Optimal Load-Shedding Control of a Microgrid Power System

Abstract

In this paper, an intelligent optimal control method is applied to solve the load-shedding problem which has an effect of reduction in fuel cost for the operating period of a diesel generator system unit integrated into a microgrid (MG) system. The optimal control has been implemented firstly to reduce the operating cost of the diesel generator and secondly to secure the proper operation of the distribution system by keeping the power balance of the MG system within a positive range of its acceptable value with the objective to meet the maximum demand side capacity. This paper has implemented a new intelligent method to solve the load shedding and saving cost of the diesel generator fuel problems in MG power system. The application of additional renewable energy systems in an MG power system has an impact on the reduction of the fuel cost of the diesel generator and implies at the same time adjustments in the fluctuations in relative excess energy generation, which has been maintained within a range of approximately thirty percent of the normal value of supply side of the MG power system.

Keywords:

• computational method
• critical and non-critical loads
• load shedding
• microgrid
• power balance
• renewable energy resources

BIOGRAPHIES

T. Madiba has 18 years of experience in the Electro-Mechanical Engineering field, in validating and integrating the life cycle plans for the plants, Rotating Machines, Piping Systems, Pumps, Power transformers, Generators, Power System, commercial and industrial project and 6 years Research and Development in Energy and Environment industry (heavy current). After completing his BSc Electro-Mechanical degree from University of Lubumbashi in DRC, he has achieved two degrees in Master of Sciences and in Master of Technology Cum laude with F'SATI AMIEN and TUT Pretoria. He has completed his PhD Electrical Engineering through the University of Pretoria in Electrical Power Engineering. His main research focus interests are Protection, Control and Load Shedding solutions of the Microgrids. Dr. Madiba is working as a Consultant Engineer with some of the Engineering Companies in South Africa. He is registered as a Professional Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa, Senior Member of South African Institute of Electrical Engineers and Member of South African Institute of Mechanical Engineering.

Ramesh C. Bansal has more than 25 years of teaching, research & industrial experience. Currently he is the Professor and Group head (Power) in the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. In previous postings he was with the University of Queensland, Australia, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India; the University of the South Pacific, Fiji; and Civil Construction Wing, All India Radio. He has published over 275 papers in journals and conferences. He has diversified research interests in the areas of Renewable Energy and Conventional Power Systems which includes wind, PV, hybrid power systems, distributed generation, grid integration of renewable energy, power systems analysis (reactive power/voltage control, stability, faults and protection), smart grid, FACTS and power quality. Prof. Bansal is an Editor/Associate Editor of member many reputed journals including IET-Renewable Power Generation and Electric Power Components and Systems. He is a Fellow, and CEngg IET-UK, Fellow Engineers Australia, Fellow Institution of Engineers (India) and Senior Member-IEEE.