Agent-based Power Scheduling Framework for Interconnected Local Energy Communities Incorporating DSO Objectives

This paper presents an agent-based power scheduling framework for interconnected local energy communities (LECs) using the Nash bargaining solution (NBS) approach to offer a fair and financial reimbursement for changing the operation objectives of such LECs. LECs are a modern form of microgrids (MGs) which consist not only of electrical energy systems but also include thermal energy. The focus is set on the LEC operator needs with different operational objectives, where in classical MGs the island aspect often dominates the operation. We assume that in the future distribution system several LECs will exist and are, therefore, interconnected with each other. It can be assumed that the operational objectives of an LEC and the distribution system operator (DSO) may differ considerably. To align these objectives and achieve system-wide cost-optimal operation, the DSO incentivizes the LECs to deviate from their previously planned power schedules by offering a financial reimbursement that is determined using the NBS mechanism. The local and global cost saving for the proposed agent-based power scheduling framework is demonstrated on a use case scenario modeled after a real pilot microgrid.