Aris L. Dimeas

Operation of a multiagent system for microgrid control

This paper presents the operation of a multiagent system (MAS) for the control of a Microgrid. The approach presented utilizes the advantages of using the MAS technology for controlling a Microgrid and a classical distributed algorithm based on the symmetrical assignment problem for the optimal energy exchange between the production units of the Microgrid and the local loads, as well the main grid.

Multi-Agent Systems for Power Engineering Applications—Part I: Concepts, Approaches, and Technical Challenges

This is the first part of a two-part paper that has arisen from the work of the IEEE Power Engineering Societys Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) Working Group. Part I of this paper examines the potential value of MAS technology to the power industry. In terms of contribution, it describes fundamental concepts and approaches within the field of multi-agent systems that are appropriate to power engineering applications. As well as presenting a comprehensive review of the meaningful power engineering applications for which MAS are being investigated, it also defines the technical issues which must be addressed in order to accelerate and facilitate the uptake of the technology within the power and energy sector. Part II of this paper explores the decisions inherent in engineering multi-agent systems for applications in the power and energy sector and offers guidance and recommendations on how MAS can be designed and implemented.

Multi-Agent Systems for Power Engineering Applications—Part II: Technologies, Standards, and Tools for Building Multi-agent Systems

This is the second part of a two-part paper that has arisen from the work of the IEEE Power Engineering Societys Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) Working Group. Part I of this paper examined the potential value of MAS technology to the power industry, described fundamental concepts and approaches within the field of multi-agent systems that are appropriate to power engineering applications, and presented a comprehensive review of the power engineering applications for which MAS are being investigated. It also defined the technical issues which must be addressed in order to accelerate and facilitate the uptake of the technology within the power and energy sector. Part II of this paper explores the decisions inherent in engineering multi-agent systems for applications in the power and energy sector and offers guidance and recommendations on how MAS can be designed and implemented. Given the significant and growing interest in this field, it is imperative that the power engineering community considers the standards, tools, supporting technologies, and design methodologies available to those wishing to implement a MAS solution for a power engineering problem. This paper describes the various options available and makes recommendations on best practice. It also describes the problem of interoperability between different multi-agent systems and proposes how this may be tackled.

Management of microgrids in market environment

Restructuring of power markets has helped in the penetration of distributed generation (DG) in the electricity networks. Microgrids are low voltage distribution networks comprising various distributed generators (DG), storage devices and controllable loads that can operate interconnected or isolated from the main distribution grid, as a controlled entity. This paper describes the main functions of the microgrid central controller required for the optimization of microgrid operation its interconnected operation. This is achieved by maximizing its value, i.e. optimizing production of the local DGs and power exchanges with the main distribution grid

Agent based control of Virtual Power Plants

The transition of traditional power systems into the flexible smart grids is under way. This paper presents a new interesting concept where Microgrids and other production or consumption units form a Virtual Power Plant. The main goal is to present the advantages of using agents for Virtual Power Plant control. More specifically this paper through examples and case studies presents how the local intelligence and the social ability of the agents may provide solutions in the optimal and effective control of a Virtual Power Plant.

Agent based Control for Microgrids

This paper presents a general framework for the control of distributed energy resources organized in microgrids. The proposed architecture is based on the agent technology and aims to integrate several functionalities, as well to be adaptable to the complexity and the size of the microgrid. To achieve this, the idea of layered learning is used, where the various controls and actions of the agents are grouped depending on their effect on the environment. A novel approach called multiagent reinforcement learning is introduced in order to increase the intelligence and the efficiency of the microgrid.

Leader-Follower Strategies for Energy Management of Multi-Microgrids

This paper presents the application of bilevel programming for analyzing competitive situations of hierarchical decision making between an Energy Services Provider representing several microgrids (MGs)-each one comprising controllable loads and dispatchable distributed generation units-and a large central production unit. The rules of the interaction between the two entities are determined in a bilateral contract. This operation is compared to the vertically integrated operation of this system, i.e., only one entity manages both the central production unit and the distributed resources of the MG. This comparison highlights the benefits of applying a two level structure in the simulated interaction.

A MAS architecture for microgrids control

This paper presents a general multiagent system based framework for the control of microgrids. The main target is to present a system capable of integrating several functionalities and to propose a general scheme for the control of microgrids. This architecture should be adaptable to the complexity and the size of the system. The architecture is based on the idea of layered learning where the various controls and actions of the agents are grouped depending on their effect on the environment. Finally, various technical issues regarding the development of such a system were presented as well the advantages of this technology

Development of an agent based intelligent control system for microgrids

This paper presents the implementation of distributed control in Power Systems. The structure of the Microgrid and the characteristics of the Multi-Agent Systems are outlined. The control system described will be implemented and tested in the pilot Microgrid of Kythnos island, Greece. The design and development of an Intelligent Load Controller is described. The structure of the control system, together with the algorithms developed, is presented. Primary objective of this project is to test under real-life conditions the distributed control approach for the power systems. Additionally, the ability of the agents to achieve efficient use of renewable energy sources and environmental friendly technologies, in general, is investigated.

Microgrids: Enhancing the Resilience of the European Megagrid

The European electricity system of the future faces challenges of unprecedented proportions. By 2020, 20% of the European electricity demand will be met by renewable generation while, by 2030, a substantial proportion of the electricity generation would become largely decarbonized. Furthermore, beyond 2030, it is expected that significant segments of the heat and transport sectors will be electrified to meet the targets proposed by the EU governments for greenhouse gas emission reductions of at least 80% in 2050.