Multi-goal optimization of competing aggregators using a web-of-cells approach

There is a trend to deviate from centrally optimized to localization of smart grid services. One new concept considered is the Web-of-Cells concept where cells are defined as a group of interconnected loads, generation plants, distributed energy resources and storage units corresponding to a physical section of the grid. Each cell will be responsible for monitoring, as well as activation capabilities for ancillary services. Further, exchanges of resources between connected cells is enabled to provide system wide optimization. This paper addresses the impact of this control architecture for local network congestion services while cells also participate on the wholesale energy markets. Two cells are realized by two independent lab setups: TNO's Hybrid Energy System Integration (HESI) Facility and University of Leuven's energy laboratory, EnergyVille. It is shown that the Web-of-Cells concept not only enables network stability by coordinating congestion efforts but also expands market trading capabilities therefore increasing overall system efficiency.