Cooperative Optimal Control of Solar Plants

Objective

The main objective is to demonstrate that the Multiple Scenario Cooperative Model Predictive Control (MSC-MPC) algorithms developed under the Advanced Grant OCONTSOLAR can be effectively applied to optimize the production of commercial solar plants. This proposed PoC aims to validate the MSC-MPC algorithms developed in OCONTSOLAR not only for the solar field for the entire solar power plant. The proposal addresses optimal scheduling and control while accounting for the intermittent and stochastic nature of solar radiation and electricity market prices. Specifically, Model Predictive Control based on multiple scenarios will be used to manage uncertainties. The experiments and demonstrations will be conducted on a commercial plant. If successful, the involved company intends to apply these results to other plants. Furthermore, the proponent believes these techniques could be extended to other types of power plants.