Comparative performance analysis of Firefly algorithm and Particle swarm Optimization for Profit Maximization of Grid connected Microgrid providing energy and ancillary service

Abstract

Microgrid in ‘Grid connected’ mode of operation is able to supply Energy and Ancillary services to the main power system. The objective of microgrid in grid connected mode is to maximize its profit by exchange of power and offering Ancillary services to the main grid as per the requirement while minimizing its operation cost. The Microgrid in coordination with its different distributed energy resources can maximize its profit by selling products like energy and frequency support ancillary services i.e regulation and spinning reserves in energy and ancillary service markets. To evaluate this, the joint optimization of energy and ancillary service dispatch by microgrid in response to ‘day ahead market’ participation is performed, considering various constraints of grid connected mode of operation. This Optimization Problem is solved and verified by algorithms based on Swarm Intelligence i.e Firefly algorithm and the results are verified using Particle Swarm Optimization. Impact analysis of probability of real time activation of ancillary services through microgrid and optimal Grid energy purchasing by microgrid on its profit maximization is carried out. This algorithm is tested on Active distribution network, modified IEEE-33 Bus radial distribution system and its performance is verified. This system is considered as microgrid with PV, Wind as renewable energy sources, dispatchable Diesel Generator unit, Vanadium Flow-battery energy storage system and load.

Keywords- Microgrid; Primary and secondary Constraints; joint optimization of Energy and Ancillary service markets; operation cost; Particle Swarm Optimization; Firefly algorithm; Swarm intelligence.