Flexibility in load demand and PHEV parameters for clean and economic microgrid operation

To lower expenses and environmental impacts, the integration of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) into distribution networks is vital, especially in microgrid (MG) systems. Furthermore, demand-side management (DSM) measures like load shifting and price-based demand response (PBDR) help to improve the economic performance of MG systems. However, various factors influence PHEV operations, including arrival and departure times to the charging platforms, battery capacity, state of charge during arrival and departure, and overall availability in the charging platform. These considerations have a noticeable impact on the cost-effectiveness of MG operations. This paper offers a novel one-to-one-based optimisation algorithm for minimising the generating cost of an MG system while considering various PHEV operational factors and DSM tactics. The subject MG system operates in grid connected mode and is powered by a microturbine, a fuel cell, and renewables, which also facilitates the charging requirements of a PHEV. A thorough investigation is carried out by taking three varieties of PHEVs with varied battery capacity and charging/discharging power levels. Furthermore, a balanced economic emission dispatch is used to achieve the best trade-off between cost minimisation and pollution reduction, ensuring long-term MG functioning. Numerical results corroborate the improvement of load factor and reduction of peak demand using DSM methods. Shifting the availability of PHEV in the charging platform during the early hours of the day proved to be a cost-effective decision due to the lower load demand and lower electricity market price during those hours. The proposed approach improves economic efficiency while also encouraging greener energy use, making it a feasible alternative for future MG systems that incorporate PHEVs.