Optimal operation of energy hub with different structures for minimal energy usage cost

Energy Hub (EH) is the transceiver of various forms of energy through a system of energy conversion, distribution and storage devices. The structure and components of the model are selected mainly based on the characteristics and needs of the load. The elements selection within the EH model has a great influence on the reliability and performance of the model. This paper performs optimization calculations for the EH model with different structures (12 operating scenarios). In particular, the operating scenarios correspond to the combination of devices in the model ranging from simple structure to complexity (taking into account the involvement of solar energy, the wind, and energy storage). The objective function for the total energy cost of the EH model within 24 hours is minimized with constraints: energy balance, capacity limits of the system and energy storage system loading capacity, power tariffs and natural gas. The calculation program is performed by General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) software. The calculation results allow the user to evaluate the role and efficiency of the devices in the EH model with different structures while selecting the appropriate EH model to maximize energy saving cost.