Coordinated Model Predictive-Based Power Flows Control in a Cooperative Network of Smart Microgrids

In this paper, a model predictive control (MPC) for the optimal power exchanges in a smart network of power microgrids (MGs) is presented. The main purpose is to present an innovative control strategy for a cluster of interconnected MGs to maximize the global benefits. A MPC-based algorithm is used to determine the scheduling of power exchanges among MGs, and the charge/discharge of each local storage system. The MPC algorithm requires information on power prices, power generation, and load forecasts. The MPC algorithm is tested through case studies with and without prediction errors on loads and renewable power production. The operation of single MGs is simulated to show the advantage of the proposed cooperative framework relative to the control of a single MG. The results demonstrate that the cooperation among MGs has significant advantages and benefits with respect to each single MG operation.