Mathematical Methods for Managing Distributed Energy Resources

PASSCODE: smartgrid

Distributed energy resources (DERs) like roof-top solar, electric vehicles, and flexible loads, have emerged as promising solutions to both decarbonize and democratize the energy sector. However, without the proper technical and socioeconomic tools, DERs will not only fail to achieve these goals, but they will also leave the grid less reliable and less resilient than it is today.

This thesis explores methods for leveraging DERs to enhance grid reliability, resiliency, and equity. Grid reliability ensures an adequate and stable supply of electricity to meet demand while resilience defines the grid’s ability to withstand and recover from disruptions such as faults or cyber-attacks. Energy equity is the concept that the benefits of energy should be distributed fairly and justly, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or ability. This thesis proposes novel optimization algorithms and control strategies to reduce the extent of power outages using networked microgrids, enable DERs and DER aggregations to participate in electricity markets without causing reliability issues, and ensure DERs are treated equitably. Additionally, this thesis presents relevant sociotechnical analysis such as how regulatory frameworks, market structures, and system operator decisions impact the benefits that distributed energy resources can provide society.

CHAIR: Johanna Mathieu