Integer programming with random-boundary intervals for planning municipal power systems

Abstract

Uncertainty attached to municipal power systems has long been crucial considerations for the related planners. Such an uncertainty could be expressed as random-boundary intervals (RBIs). In this study, an integer programming with random-boundary intervals (IPRBI) approach was developed for municipal electricity-supply management under uncertainty. A concept of random-boundary interval (RBI) was introduced to reflect dual uncertainties that exist in many system components. A solution method named two-boundary approach (TBA) was proposed to solve the IPRBI model. A case study was provided for demonstrating applicability of the developed method. The results indicated that the RBI and integer-interval concepts were effective in dealing with highly uncertain parameters. The IPRBI method solutions could be used for generating efficient electricity-supply schemes under various complexities. They can also be used for analyzing tradeoffs between system cost and electricity-shortage risk. Compared with the existing methods, IPRBI was advantageous in reflecting the complexities of system uncertainties that were presented as RBIs, integer-intervals and intervals.Random-boundary interval Integer-interval Uncertainty Correlation Electricity supply planning