A Hybrid Intelligent Multiagent System for the Remote Control of Solar Farms

This paper describes a multiagent architecture integrated system designed to supervise infrastructures in solar farms. The system enables monitoring the environment by means of sensor networks that are in charge of collecting data. It is designed using a hybrid model composed of an inference engine and an ontology. The former makes the system intelligent, while the latter structures knowledge. We have also developed a tool to configure and use the multiagent system in a simple and intuitive way

A Distributed Approach for Estimating Battery State-Of-Charge in Solar Farms

A common problem in solar farms is to predict when accumulators stop working optimally and start losing efficiency. This paper proposes and describes how to use Bayesian networks together with expert systems to predict this moment by using a telecontrol multiagent system for monitoring solar farms with distributed sensors, which was developed in a previous work. To this end, a Bayesian network model and its implementation are proposed. The resulting system meets the requirements of telecontrol systems (reliability, flexibility, and response time), yields a solution for the prediction of lifespan batteries, and provides the multiagent system with autonomous intelligent capabilities and integrated learning.Consejería de Innovación, Ciencia y Empresas (Junta de Andalucía) P08-TIC-0386

A Survey on Systems Integration in the Energy Automation Domain through OPC Interface

[Abstract] The Object Linking and Embedding for Process Control (OPC) interface provides an effective means to exchange data between automation-related entities, both hardware and software. Since its creation, it has been profusely used not only for industrial scenarios but also for other spheres, among which energy automation is an important scope. In order to portray the relevance of such protocol, this paper presents a survey of applications of OPC communication to manage systems integration in the context of energy automationJunta de Extremadura; GR1815

Wide-Area Time-Synchronized Closed-Loop Control of Power Systems And Decentralized Active Distribution Networks

The rapidly expanding power system grid infrastructure and the need to reduce the occurrence of major blackouts and prevention or hardening of systems against cyber-attacks, have led to increased interest in the improved resilience of the electrical grid. Distributed and decentralized control have been widely applied to computer science research. However, for power system applications, the real-time application of decentralized and distributed control algorithms introduce several challenges. In this dissertation, new algorithms and methods for decentralized control, protection and energy management of Wide Area Monitoring, Protection and Control (WAMPAC) and the Active Distribution Network (ADN) are developed to improve the resiliency of the power system. To evaluate the findings of this dissertation, a laboratory-scale integrated Wide WAMPAC and ADN control platform was designed and implemented. The developed platform consists of phasor measurement units (PMU), intelligent electronic devices (IED) and programmable logic controllers (PLC). On top of the designed hardware control platform, a multi-agent cyber-physical interoperability viii framework was developed for real-time verification of the developed decentralized and distributed algorithms using local wireless and Internet-based cloud communication. A novel real-time multiagent system interoperability testbed was developed to enable utility independent private microgrids standardized interoperability framework and define behavioral models for expandability and plug-and-play operation. The state-of-theart power system multiagent framework is improved by providing specific attributes and a deliberative behavior modeling capability. The proposed multi-agent framework is validated in a laboratory based testbed involving developed intelligent electronic device prototypes and actual microgrid setups. Experimental results are demonstrated for both decentralized and distributed control approaches. A new adaptive real-time protection and remedial action scheme (RAS) method using agent-based distributed communication was developed for autonomous hybrid AC/DC microgrids to increase resiliency and continuous operability after fault conditions. Unlike the conventional consecutive time delay-based overcurrent protection schemes, the developed technique defines a selectivity mechanism considering the RAS of the microgrid after fault instant based on feeder characteristics and the location of the IEDs. The experimental results showed a significant improvement in terms of resiliency of microgrids through protection using agent-based distributed communication

Energy management in microgrids with renewable energy sources: A literature review

Renewable energy sources have emerged as an alternative to meet the growing demand for energy, mitigate climate change, and contribute to sustainable development. The integration of these systems is carried out in a distributed manner via microgrid systems; this provides a set of technological solutions that allows information exchange between the consumers and the distributed generation centers, which implies that they need to be managed optimally. Energy management in microgrids is defined as an information and control system that provides the necessary functionality, which ensures that both the generation and distribution systems supply energy at minimal operational costs. This paper presents a literature review of energy management in microgrid systems using renewable energies, along with a comparative analysis of the different optimization objectives, constraints, solution approaches, and simulation tools applied to both the interconnected and isolated microgrids. To manage the intermittent nature of renewable energy, energy storage technology is considered to be an attractive option due to increased technological maturity, energy density, and capability of providing grid services such as frequency response. Finally, future directions on predictive modeling mainly for energy storage systems are also proposed

Impact of distributed generation on protection and voltage regulation of distribution systems : a review

During recent decades with the power system restructuring process, centralized energy sources are being replaced with decentralized ones. This phenomenon has resulted in a novel concept in electric power systems, particularly in distribution systems, known as Distributed Generation (DG). On one hand, utilizing DG is important for secure power generation and reducing power losses. On the other hand, widespread use of such technologies introduces new challenges to power systems such as their optimal location, protection devices' settings, voltage regulation, and Power Quality (PQ) issues. Another key point which needs to be considered relates to specific DG technologies based on Renewable Energy Sources (RESs), such as wind and solar, due to their uncertain power generation. In this regard, this paper provides a comprehensive review of different types of DG and investigates the newly emerging challenges arising in the presence of DG in electrical grids.fi=vertaisarvioitu|en=peerReviewed

Application of Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks to Achieve Intelligent Microgrids: A Promising Approach towards a Global Smart Grid Deployment

Smart Grids (SGs) constitute the evolution of the traditional electrical grid towards a new paradigm, which should increase the reliability, the security and, at the same time, reduce the costs of energy generation, distribution and consumption. Electrical microgrids (MGs) can be considered the first stage of this evolution of the grid, because of the intelligent management techniques that must be applied to assure their correct operation. To accomplish this task, sensors and actuators will be necessary, along with wireless communication technologies to transmit the measured data and the command messages. Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks (WSANs) are therefore a promising solution to achieve an intelligent management of MGs and, by extension, the SG. In this frame, this paper surveys several aspects concerning the application of WSANs to manage MGs and the electrical grid, as well as the communication protocols that could be applied. The main concerns regarding the SG deployment are also presented, including future scenarios where the interoperability of different generation technologies must be assured

Adoption of artificial intelligence based technologies in sub-saharan african agriculture

Dissertation presented as the partial requirement for obtaining a Master's degree in Information Management, specialization in Knowledge Management and Business IntelligenceSub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is currently facing numerous agriculture related challenges such as climate change, lacking infrastructure, and limited institutional as well as economic support. However, current research does not provide holistic solutions to this problem. This study aims to shed light on this topic through the development of a model that can be used to assess the solution potential as well as high-level implementation requirements of selected artificial intelligence (AI) based agriculture technologies in the context of SSA. To thoroughly develop the above-mentioned model a design science approach was followed. First an in depth (systematic) literature review was conducted where the agriculture related challenges in SSA and state-of-the-art AI-based agriculture technologies are detailed. This step was followed by the creation of a model that aims to find a nexus between the researched challenges and available technologies as potential solutions. Furthermore, the framework outlines context specific technology adoption requirements. Lastly, expert interviews were conducted to validate and revise the proposed model. The final framework clearly highlights the positive impact AI based technologies can have in SSA’s agriculture and the basic conditions that need to be met to successfully implement them

Revolutionizing Green Transport: An Extensive Review of Hybrid Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and Electric Microgrid Integration

Electric vehicles (EVs), recognized as a strategic approach to reducing oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, rely on electricity instead of traditional fuels like petrol or diesel for battery charging, positioning them as a significant player in future energy landscapes. The anticipated decline in oil demand aligns with the increasing prevalence of EVs, making attention to charging infrastructure crucial. This paper extensively explores charging infrastructure considerations, emphasizing their significance in both urban and rural contexts, especially in regions with unstable or absent power supplies. Examining off-grid, grid-connected, and hybrid charging modes, the research delves into various EV designs, including those utilizing fuel cells or batteries. A thorough understanding of energy-source-based charging techniques and diverse power-level charging stations is presented, catering to readers' interests. With a focus on enhancing the longevity and efficiency of electric vehicles, researchers are investigating innovative charging methods, including microgrid concepts within charging stations. Recognizing electric vehicles as multi-energy systems, the paper underscores the importance of effective power management and control for optimal energy utilization. Additionally, the review scrutinizes the impact of electric vehicles on utility grid infrastructure & maintenance, evaluating various power management and control systems. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for electric vehicle operators and research engineers, offering insights into the current state of the field and potential avenues for future exploration

Towards the next generation of smart grids: semantic and holonic multi-agent management of distributed energy resources

The energy landscape is experiencing accelerating change; centralized energy systems are being decarbonized, and transitioning towards distributed energy systems, facilitated by advances in power system management and information and communication technologies. This paper elaborates on these generations of energy systems by critically reviewing relevant authoritative literature. This includes a discussion of modern concepts such as ‘smart grid’, ‘microgrid’, ‘virtual power plant’ and ‘multi-energy system’, and the relationships between them, as well as the trends towards distributed intelligence and interoperability. Each of these emerging urban energy concepts holds merit when applied within a centralized grid paradigm, but very little research applies these approaches within the emerging energy landscape typified by a high penetration of distributed energy resources, prosumers (consumers and producers), interoperability, and big data. Given the ongoing boom in these fields, this will lead to new challenges and opportunities as the status-quo of energy systems changes dramatically. We argue that a new generation of holonic energy systems is required to orchestrate the interplay between these dense, diverse and distributed energy components. The paper therefore contributes a description of holonic energy systems and the implicit research required towards sustainability and resilience in the imminent energy landscape. This promotes the systemic features of autonomy, belonging, connectivity, diversity and emergence, and balances global and local system objectives, through adaptive control topologies and demand responsive energy management. Future research avenues are identified to support this transition regarding interoperability, secure distributed control and a system of systems approach