Optimizing Unit Commitment in Micro Grid Hybrid Power Systems Through Synchronization for Cost-Effective Energy Production

The global scarcity of electrical energy necessitates exploring cost-effective power production methods, particularly through hybridizing power sources. Synchronization is a key process that facilitates seamless transitions between power sources and reduces power generation costs in hybrid systems. This study examined the unit commitment of a microgrid comprising four power generation sources: diesel generators, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, pumped hydro energy storage systems, and public power supply. Two scenarios are analyzed: one without a synchronizer and the other incorporating a synchronizer. The results demonstrate that the scenario with a synchronizer achieves a lower unit commitment cost, highlighting the economic benefits of synchronization in hybrid power generation systems. Specifically, using Hybrid particle swarm optimization-Ant colony optimization (HPSO-ACO) with a synchronizer for a 24 hours period reduces costs to N55,088.00, compared to N78,888.00 without a synchronizer, reflecting a 30.16% cost reduction.