Integer programming with random-boundary intervals for planning municipal power systems

Uncertainty attached to municipal power systems has long been crucial considerations for the related planners. Such an uncertainty could be expressed as random-boundary intervals (RBIs). In this study, an integer programming with random-boundary intervals (IPRBI) approach was developed for municipal electricity-supply management under uncertainty. A concept of random-boundary interval (RBI) was introduced to reflect dual uncertainties that exist in many system components. A solution method named two-boundary approach (TBA) was proposed to solve the IPRBI model. A case study was provided for demonstrating applicability of the developed method. The results indicated that the RBI and integer-interval concepts were effective in dealing with highly uncertain parameters. The IPRBI method solutions could be used for generating efficient electricity-supply schemes under various complexities. They can also be used for analyzing tradeoffs between system cost and electricity-shortage risk. Compared with the existing methods, IPRBI was advantageous in reflecting the complexities of system uncertainties that were presented as RBIs, integer-intervals and intervals.