Capacity allocation method of hydrogen-blending natural gas pipeline network based on bilevel optimization

• Published in: Energy (Oxford) 2023-12, Vol.285, p.129417, Article 129417
• Main Authors: Qi, Shikun, Zhao, Wei, Qiu, Rui, Liu, Chunying, Li, Zhuochao, Hao, Lan, Liang, Yongtu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bilevel optimization model; Calorific value; Capacity allocation; Hydrogen blending; Natural gas pipeline network
• ISSN: 0360-5442
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2023.129417

Blending hydrogen into the natural gas pipeline network is an efficient approach for storing and delivering renewable energy. However, the variation in gas quality and the diversity of delivery paths can lead to difficulties in pipeline operation management. In this paper, we propose a bilevel optimization model to understand the influence of hydrogen blending on pipeline capacity allocation and gas transmission tariffs. The lower-level optimizes the best capacity booking of each shipper, and the upper-level optimizes the best capacity allocation of the transmission system operator. Detailed transmission path and gas calorific value at each delivery point are taken into account to calculate the actual gas transmission tariffs. The proposed model is solved by the alternating direction multiplier method and validated by a real-world pipeline network. Results show that: (1) the proposed method can help the shipper meet the energy demand under different hydrogen blending cases, (2) a fair cost sharing is achieved among all parties, (3) when the hydrogen blending ratio is 5 %, the pipeline capacity can be optimally utilized to achieve the maximum pipeline capacity allocation. This method can guide efficient gas pipeline capacity allocation and facilitates the establishment of trading platforms. •Customize a bilevel optimization model for the operator and shipper.•Determine cost and capacity allocation when hydrogen blending.•Apply alternating direction multiplier method algorithm to solve the model.•Conduct a comprehensive analysis of a real case in China.