Bi-level optimal dispatching of distribution network considering friendly interaction with electric vehicle aggregators

Abstract

The widespread application of electric vehicles (EVs) is a positive force driving green development. However, their widespread penetration also poses significant challenges and threats to the security and stable operation of the power grid. To address this urgent issue, this article constructs a bi-level optimal dispatching model fostering collaboration between electric vehicle aggregators and the distribution network. The upper-level optimization targets the minimization of peak-valley differences in the distribution network via considerably arranging power outputs of gas turbines, while the lower-level one focuses on reducing the charging expense of EV aggregators via efficient charging transfer. Note that the charging expense is not only composed of electric cost but also a dynamic carbon emission factor-based cost, which contributes to the electricity economy and carbon reduction concurrently. A geometric mean optimizer (GMO) is introduced to solve the mode. Its efficiency is evaluated against three typical algorithms, i.e., genetic algorithm, great-wall construction algorithm, and optimization algorithm based on an extended IEEE 33-bus system with different charging behaviors of EVs on both a typical weekday and weekend. Simulation results demonstrate that the GMO outperforms other competitive algorithms in accuracy and stability. The peak-valley difference between the distribution network and the total cost of EV aggregators can be decreased by over 98% and 76%, respectively.