Optimization of Operation Strategies for an Electricity-Gas Coupled Virtual Power Plant Considering Carbon Capture

In response to the introduction of dual carbon targets, there is an urgent need to develop an energy system that is clean, low-carbon, safe, and efficient. The Virtual Power Plant (VPP) uses big data and other technical means, taking electricity as the center, to aggregate various types of loads for management. Through coordinated optimization technology, it reduces costs and serves as an important carrier for carbon trading. The article constructs an economic dispatch model for an electricity-gas coupled virtual power plant (E-G VPP) considering carbon capture systems and integrated demand response. A conventional structure of the E-G VPP was developed, analyzing the functions of carbon capture and power-to-gas joint operation modes in enhancing renewable energy usage, lowering carbon emissions, and improving unit performance. Utilizing integrated demand response and low-carbon operational strategies, a low-carbon economic dispatch model was created to facilitate the economically efficient operation of the integrated electricity-gas energy system. Verification of the modified IEEE 39-bus power network alongside the Belgian 20-bus gas network coupling system demonstrates that the proposed operation mode effectively increases wind power utilization while minimizing carbon emissions.