Optimizing the Installation of Hybrid Power Plants in Non-Interconnected Islands

This paper proposes a comprehensive optimization approach based on linear programming (LP) for the installation of multiple hybrid power plants (HPPs) in non-interconnected islands. Contrary to the current state-of-the-art solutions, the proposed approach optimizes simultaneously the size, location, and technology of each HPP in order to minimize the long-term electricity cost of the island. The optimization problem is formulated as a LP problem to ensure convergence and global optimum solution. Moreover, a series of system constraints are included in the optimization problem, e.g., power reserves, transmission constraints, etc., to ensure the secure and reliable operation of the grid; this is compatible with the actual preventive measures imposed by the network operator in real non-interconnected islands. Simulations are executed in a real Greek Island (Rhodes), confirming the applicability of the proposed method as an optimization tool for network planning studies in non-interconnected islands.</p