Applications of Utility-Scale Power to Gas Energy Storage Systems in Smart Grids

ABSTRACT This thesis aims to develop the engineering tools required to simulate, design, and optimize the operation of utility-scale power to gas (PtG) energy storage. First, a co-simulation platform for power and gas distribution networks is developed. The co-simulation platform could help quantifying the role of PtG technology in shaping the future of power distribution systems. Using the co-simulation platform, several research studies can be carried out such as operation scheduling and planning of power and gas networks. Second, a new formulation is developed for the optimal design i.e., sizing, of PtG energy storage. The developed formulation aims at minimizing the capital and operation costs of PtG and maximizing the harvested power during periods of surplus. Third, a new mathematical formulation is proposed for the optimal production scheduling of hydrogen to supply fuel cell buses. The proposed formulation takes into account the operation requirements of both power distribution and electric bus transit networks.