Multi-Objective Rural Energy Planning Considering Economic and Environmental Sustainability

Against the backdrop of global energy transition and sustainable development, the optimal planning of rural energy systems has become a crucial link in achieving a low-carbon economy and energy security. Firstly, this study proposes a multi-objective rural energy planning method that considers both economic efficiency and environmental sustainability, aiming to minimize investment and operational costs while maximizing environmental benefits. The objective function encompasses the investment and operational costs of gas boilers, heat pumps, wind turbines, photovoltaic systems, electrical energy storage, thermal energy storage, and CHP (Combined Heat and Power) units, as well as the costs of purchasing electricity and gas, and the environmental costs converted from carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, equipment output constraints and energy balance constraints are taken into account. Finally, based on the optimization model, the selection and capacity configuration of equipment in the rural energy system are determined. The results demonstrate that the proposed scenario reduction-based multi-objective rural energy planning method can effectively reduce the comprehensive costs of rural energy systems, enhance their environmental sustainability, and provide a scientific basis for rational planning of rural energy systems.