Distributionally Robust Bilevel Optimization Model for Distribution Network with Demand Response under Uncertain Renewables Using Wasserstein Metrics

• Published in: IEEE transactions on sustainable energy 2025, p.1-12
• Main Authors: Yin, Can, Dong, Jin, Zhang, Yiling
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: bilevel decision-making; Buildings; Costs; distributionally robust optimization; Electricity; HVAC; HVAC aggregator; Optimization; Optimization models; Pricing; Real-time systems; Renewable energy sources; residential demand flexibility; uncertain renewables; Uncertainty
• ISSN: 1949-3029; 1949-3037
• DOI: 10.1109/TSTE.2024.3509314

We consider a distribution network integrating demand response (DR) participants in the presence of uncertain renewable suppliers and outdoor temperatures. A bilevel optimization model is proposed to capture the intricate dynamics between price-incentivized DR participants and distribution system operations, including energy procurement and active/reactive power flows. The model is formulated as a distributional robust bilevel optimization using Wasserstein metrics. We show favorable data-driven properties including out-of-sample guarantee and asymptotic consistency. Furthermore, we present a tractable mixed-integer linear programming reformulation and characterize the worst-case distribution. Computational experiments are conducted on a modified 33-bus system. Our findings underscore the efficacy of the pricing strategies derived from the proposed bilevel optimization model. These strategies not only effectively manage DR participants' behavior but also bring equity considerations among households with various characteristics to light. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between distribution system operators and DR participants.