Optimizing the design of complex energy conversion systems by Branch and Cut

The paper examines the applicability of mathematical programming methods to the simultaneous optimization of the structure and the operational parameters of a combined-cycle-based cogeneration plant. The optimization problem is formulated as a nonconvex mixed-integer nonlinear problem (MINLP) and solved by the MINLP solver LaGO. The algorithm generates a convex relaxation of the MINLP and applies a Branch and Cut algorithm to the relaxation. Numerical results for different demands for electric power and process steam are discussed and a sensitivity analysis is performed. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.