Optimal operation of integrated electricity and heat system: A review of modeling and solution methods

Abstract The optimal operation of the integrated electricity and heat systems (IEHS) can bring environmental benefits, reduce the operational cost, and achieve high penetration levels of renewables. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the IEHS modeling and solution methods for the optimal operation. With respect to the optimal operation, the IEHS modeling is reviewed from five aspects, including the representation of dynamic characteristics, operational flexibility improvement, operation under uncertainty, joint dispatch of the electrical power system (EPS) and district heating system (DHS), and joint market clearing of the EPS and DHS. The solution methods for the optimal operation of the IEHS are divided in four groups according to the properties of optimization problems, i.e., methods for integrated energy flow calculation, methods for decentralized optimization, methods using relaxation and convexification techniques, and methods based on intelligent algorithms. The main characteristics, advantages, and limitations of the modeling and solution methods are detailed and compared. In the end, the current gaps and future research are summarized regarding the modeling and solution methods for the optimal operation of the IEHS.