Stochastic multi-objective operational planning of smart distribution systems considering demand response programs

The development of smart grids offers new opportunities to improve the efficiency of operation of Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) by implementing an intelligent Distribution Management System (DMS). The DMS consists of application systems that are used to support the DERs management undertaken by a Distribution System Operator (DSO). In this paper, a conceptual model for a Demand Response Management System (DRMS), conceived as an application system of a DMS, is presented. Moreover, an optimization tool, able to consider the available DERs (conventional or renewable Distributed Generations (DGs) and demand response) is proposed. The optimization tool uses a stochastic multi-objective method in order to schedule DERs and aims at minimizing the total operational costs and emissions while considering the intermittent nature of wind and solar power as well as demand forecast errors. In order to facilitate small and medium loads participation in demand response programs, a Demand Response Provider (DRP) aggregates offers for load reduction. The proposed scheduling approach for DERs is tested on a 69-bus distribution test system over a 24-h period. © 2014 Elsevier B.V.