Nonlinear programming for BESS operation for the improvement of economic, technical and environmental indices by considering grid-connected and stand-alone networks: An application to the territory of Colombia

This study addresses the problem of optimal Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) operation in power distribution networks in a realistic scenario that reflects the variability in photovoltaic generation and energy demand on a typical day of operation in two region of Colombia. To solve this problem, it was developed a Nonlinear Programming (NLP) model that includes three objective functions, which were approached from a single-objective optimization perspective. These objective functions focus on power distribution systems’ operating costs, energy losses due to energy transport, and carbon dioxide emissions at the substation node. The proposed mathematical model was solved using the SNOPT solver in the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS). To validate the numerical results, the 33-node test system to match the energy generation and demand characteristics of the city of Medellín, Colombia was used as a grid-connected scenario. Similarly, an adapted version of the 27-node test system that considers the energy generation and demand characteristics specific to the municipality of Capurganá, Colombia was used, to analyze the effect of the BESS in a standalone network. The proposed methodology was compared with four metaheuristic optimization methods documented in the literature, including the Chu and Beasley genetic algorithm, the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the vortex search algorithm, and the ant lion optimizer. According to the findings, the proposed GAMS-based methodology outperformed the four metaheuristic optimization methods in terms of solution quality and average processing times for the three objective functions under analysis. These results demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of GAMS in achieving a solution for the optimal operation of all BESSs installed in the grid-connected and standalone systems. •Detailed NLP model for optimal BESS operation in AC distribution systems.•Novel SNOPT-based approach for optimal BESS operation in distribution systems.•Efficient optimization method for optimal BESS in AC grids with fast processing.