Minimization of operational cost for an Islanded Microgrid using a real coded Genetic Algorithm and a Mixed Integer linear Programming method

To achieve optimal energy generation for different renewable energy resources and to control the charging and discharging functions of energy storage system by minimizing the operation cost and by satisfying the electricity demand is a seriously challenging optimization problem. The aim of the Virtual Power Producer (VPP) is to ensure the optimal scheduling of the connected units in the Islanded Smart Microgrid. It is necessary to examine the scheduling problem using different approaches, since different methods can give different solutions. This paper surveys the Mixed-Integer Programming (MILP) and the Genetic Algorithm (GA) methods used in the field focusing on energy management. The optimization issue is examined using the presented methods. The results are summarized and compared by a Graphical User Interface (GUI). The proposed methods guarantee a reliability and quality solution of the minimum operational cost's problem. The results presented in this paper might be valuable for future research in energy management systems.