Stochastic Programming-Based Annual Peak-Regulation Potential Assessing Method for Virtual Power Plants

The intervention of distributed loads, propelled by the swift advancement of distributed energy sources and the escalating demand for diverse load types encompassing electricity and cooling within virtual power plants (VPPs), has exerted an influence on the symmetry of the grid. Consequently, a quantitative assessment of the annual peak-shaving capability of a VPP is instrumental in mitigating the peak-to-valley difference in the grid, enhancing the operational safety of the grid, and reducing grid asymmetry. This paper presents a peak-shaving optimization method for VPPs, which takes into account renewable energy uncertainty and flexible load demand response. Firstly, wind power (WP), photovoltaic (PV) generation, and demand-side response (DR) are integrated into the VPP framework. Uncertainties related to WP and PV generation are incorporated through the scenario method within deterministic constraints. Secondly, a stochastic programming (SP) model is established for the VPP, with the objective of maximizing the peak-regulation effect and minimizing electricity loss for demand-side users. The case study results indicate that the proposed model effectively tackles peak-regulation optimization across diverse new energy output scenarios and accurately assesses the peak-regulation potential of the power system. Specifically, the proportion of load decrease during peak hours is 18.61%, while the proportion of load increase during off-peak hours is 17.92%. The electricity loss degrees for users are merely 0.209 in summer and 0.167 in winter, respectively.