Multi-Criteria Operation Optimization of Combined Cool, Heat and Power (CCHP) Generation Systems in a Microgrid

Energy efficiency is one of the most important issues in the power system studies and many methods are used to improve power systems efficiency. Combined cool, heat and power (CCHP) systems are one of the most important technologies that can improve power system efficiency and these systems use their excess heat for supplying heat and cool loads. This paper presents a framework for optimal operation of CCHP systems in a microgrid. At first the unit cost functions are used to optimize operation of CCHP units. Then the algorithm determines the optimal operating strategy of microgrid units. A multi-criteria operation optimization method is proposed that uses primary energy consumption, pollution emissions and operating costs as criteria. The case study is performed for a nine bus microgrid and the results are compared with reference articles results and the advantage of the proposed method is investigated.