A flexible tool for modeling and optimal dispatch of resources in agri-energy hubs

Abstract

The dispatch of energy and resources in agricultural systems often involves the definition and resolution of optimization problems. This paper presents a novel tool composed of a set of MATLAB® and Simulink® files that has been developed to ease such tasks. In contrast to other alternatives, it allows the consideration of multiple kinds of resources in the problem and the relationships between the inputs and outputs of the system; its parametrization can be defined graphically in Simulink® without requiring third party software, and the entire package is freely available on Github. The package can generate the constraints in MATLAB® code and can get the optimal dispatch schedule for the deterministic mixed-integer linear problem that represents the defined system. Its main functions and blocks as well as a case study based on a traditional Mediterranean greenhouse and a photovoltaic parking lot located in Almeria (Spain) are included to demonstrate its use and clarify how the problem is formulated. The simulation performed validates the tool as being useful for decision-making (schedule irrigation and CO2 enrichment, as well as managing storage systems) in these and similar environments. Future implementations are intended to incorporate the interconnection of agents with opposed interests and robust optimization strategies for uncertain scenarios.