Model predictive control-based energy management system for isolated electro-thermal microgrids in rural areas of Ecuador

The electricity demand in the world is increasing rapidly, so technological advances have focused on developing systems that can supply energy in a safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly way. Likewise, the access to electricity of isolated communities in developing countries plays a fundamental role in improving the quality of life of their inhabitants. In this context, Microgrids become potential alternatives to provide electricity to locations in Ecuador where the National Interconnected System does not reach. In this work, an Energy Management System (EMS) for an isolated MG based on Model Predictive Control is developed with the aim to minimize the MG operating costs, reliably and safely electricity supply while satisfying the users' comfort requirements in an isolated rural area of Ecuador. The electro-thermal MG considered is composed of a photovoltaic generator, a diesel generator, a lead-acid battery bank, electrical loads, and a Domestic Hot Water system consisting of an Electric Water Heater and a water storage tank. Simulations are carried out using weather data obtained through Solcast API for the year 2020. The performance of the proposed EMS is compared to a Unit Commitment standard, showing a reduction in MG operating costs and in the greenhouse gas emissions while maximizing the utilization of renewable energy.