Stochastic Programming and Decomposition in Energy System Modelling and Optimization

The design and operation of energy systems, specifically those driven by chemical processes such as gasification and coal combustion have long been associated with theoretical model-ling studies done within chemical engineering. However, with the rising need to face challenges brought upon by a warming climate and increased emissions from fossil fuel sources, there is significant interest in being able to design and operate systems that can harness the power of renewable energy sources while also providing economic benefits derived from operating them in a flexible manner. Mathematical model-ling of such systems will therefore need to borrow concepts from chemical process engineering as well as power systems engineering and energy economics. The main contribution from this project would be to look closely into the behaviour of polygeneration energy pathways and investigate how and to what extent the energy system can be made more flexible while also taking into account the aim to maximize profitability from the perspective of the operator. This project represents an intersection where process engineering and power systems concepts meet to better design and operate flexible polygeneration systems as we look to transition to future energy systems.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ali Elkamel

Student:

Partner:

Technical University of Denmark

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: