Modeling and optimization of renewables: applying the Energy Hub approach

At the authors institute a novel concept, the so called Energy Hub, was developed to solve optimal power flow (OPF) problems for integrated energy systems with multiple energy carriers. This paper applies the Energy Hub model on an OPF problem considering multiple renewables in a mixed-consumer area. From the experiences of a case study the following modifications of the general model were derived: the proposed representation focuses on renewables by decomposition of the power flow into the energy exchanged with the grid and the locally produced and consumed energy. In addition, a network flow description for a system of Hubs is presented. An example finally illustrates the feasibility of the model on a single Hub including 5 different energy carriers and 4 conversion elements.