Multi-agent-based real-time operation of microgrids employing plug-in electric vehicles and building prosumers

Real-time operation of microgrids holds significant importance due to its ability to enhance energy resilience and efficiency. Real-time control in conjunction with continuous monitoring and energy supply and demand fluctuations adaptation, ensures a stable and reliable power supply for local communities, even during grid disturbances or outages. Moreover, real-time operation supports demand response mechanisms, enabling users to actively manage their energy consumption and costs. Overall, it plays a pivotal role in modernizing and futureproofing contemporary energy infrastructure, making it more sustainable. In this paper, an efficient, easily applied multi-agent-based real-time energy management and control system for microgrids employing Plug-In Electric Vehicles (PEVs) and building prosumers is developed. The primary goal of this proposed approach is to determine the optimal power set-points for all microgrid components with the objective to reduce the overall daily operation expenses under fluctuating electricity price, while simultaneously satisfying a wide range of constraints. Well-defined flexibilities of all microgrid components to adjust their power are harnessed to execute optimal power dispatch. The implementation of the proposed method resulted in a noteworthy cost reduction of 14.3% when contrasted with a typical operation of the microgrid.