Optimal operation of load aggregator considering controllable air conditioners and intermittent uncertainties

Characterized by thermal energy storage and controllability, aggregated air conditioner load is a significant flexible resource in distribution power system. The transformation of this aggregated load into an actual controllable resource is a crucial technical challenge. This study focuses on optimal control of aggregated air conditioner load considering multiple uncertainties in the power system. Firstly, the operational characteristics and adjustability of the air conditioner load are analyzed. A linearized second-order equivalent thermal parameter model is proposed to achieve the balance between modeling accuracy and complexity. On this basis, a rolling optimal control strategy is developed for the aggregated load to minimize the operational cost, wherein multiple uncertainties including load profiles, electricity price, solar irradiance, and outdoor temperature are considered. Case studies verify the effectiveness of the proposed method and highlight the significance of aggregated air conditioner load in power system operation.