A system to optimise production scheduling around time-varying electricity tariffs

Extensive research has been done to develop electricity cost optimisation models for various industrial purposes such as cement plants and steel smelters. Research has also considered an effective method for achieving the desired cost savings in a sustainable way. Researchers have historically focused on the development of the simulation model, but none have provided a method for sustainable implementation in industry. In this paper a system will be developed that is capable of implementing such optimisation models in industry. This system fully automates the process of gathering all required data and information and incorporating it into the prior defined optimisation model. The result of the optimisation is then automatically communicated clearly and effectively to plant personnel. The system is implemented on various South African cement plants. In two case studies, a total cost saving of R3-million is shown.