Optimization approach for planning hybrid electrical energy system: a Brazilian case

The continuous proliferation of distributed generation is leading end users to look for new tools that help to design hybrid electrical energy systems (HEES). Thus, this work proposes a novel approach for optimal planning of HEES, which comprises the optimization of the type and capacity of distributed generation connected to the end user. The main objective is to minimize the project’s total cost, considering the net metering scheme. To this end, the bioinspired meta-heuristic artificial immune system is proposed to optimally determine the number and type of photovoltaic panels. In addition, a nonlinear programming model is proposed to optimize the diesel generator and BESS capacity, considering the energy supply to the consumer by the HEES and the main distribution grid. Case studies involving commercial and residential customers in Brazil are introduced considering the normative resolutions from ANEEL, the Brazilian Regulatory Agency. Comparative analyses are made concerning an exhaustive search procedure and the commercial software Homer Pro, designed to optimize the operation of HEES systems. An important conclusion is that the proposed approach is as effective as the cutting-edge tools, with reasonable computational effort.