ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with optimization of Multigeneration Systems (MG) systems in the short-term operation timescale. It explores the structures and characteristics of MG components. The chapter addresses the different types of objective functions for single-objective and multiple-objective optimizations. It illustrates various constraints that can be encountered in the formulation of MG operational optimization problems. The chapter summarises the solution techniques used in various applications. It presents an illustrative example of operational optimization of a trigeneration system. Representation of MG components for formulation of optimization problems is a challenging task requiring a suitable modeling framework. An MG system is purposely built to supply different loads, the most common types of which are electricity, heat, and cooling. Interconnection among various MG plants allows optimal management of portfolios of resources. MG system operation can potentially be improved by the possibility of storing energy under different forms, also depending on the economics of storing different types of energy.
