Two-Stage Optimal Active-Reactive Power Coordination for Microgrids with High Renewable Sources Penetration and Electrical Vehicles Based on Improved Sine-Cosine Algorithm

As current global trends aim at the large-scale insertion of electric vehicles as a replacement for conventional vehicles, new challenges occur in terms of the stable operation of electric distribution networks. Microgrids have become reliable solutions for integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, and are considered a suitable alternative for accommodating the growing fleet of electrical vehicles. However, efficient management of all equipment within a microgrid requires complex solving algorithms. In this article, a novel two-stage scheme is proposed for the optimal coordination of both active and reactive power flows in a microgrid, considering the high penetration of renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and electric mobility. An improved sine-cosine algorithm is introduced to ensure the day-ahead optimal planning of the microgrid's components aiming at minimizing the total active energy losses of the system. In this regard, both local and centralized control strategies are investigated for multiple generations and consumption scenarios. The latter proved itself a promising control scheme for the microgrid operation, as important energy loss reduction is encountered when applied.