Optimization of CHCP (combined heat power and cooling) systems operation strategy using dynamic programming

In this paper we introduce an enhanced methodology to determine the optimal control strategy for a complex trigeneration plant. The plant is designed to meet the thermal and electrical loads of a user and is connected to the electrical grid. We consider a single working-day and the plant set-points are determined on an hourly basis minimizing total energy cost, plant maintenance costs, and costs associated to switching on and off the power plant components. To realistically simulate the behavior of large power plants, a constraint on the minimum duration of on and off intervals is considered for each plant section.