A quantum-inspired optimization strategy for optimal dispatch to increase heat and power efficiency

Abstract

Combined heat and power (CHP) systems are widely used in industries for their high energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. The optimal dispatch of CHP systems involves scheduling the operation of various equipment to minimize the total operational cost while meeting the heat and power demand of the facility. In this research work, a novel quantum-inspired optimization algorithm is proposed for the first time to solve the optimal dispatch problem of CHP systems. The proposed algorithm combines the principles of quantum mechanics with classical optimization algorithms to achieve a better solution. The algorithm uses quantum gates to perform quantum operations on the optimization variables, which allows for the exploration of a larger search space and potentially better solutions than classical algorithms. The proposed algorithm also incorporates a classical optimizer to refine the numerical evaluations acquired from the quantum operations. The performance of the adopted optimization technique was demonstrated by associating it with various other optimization techniques based on factors such as the speed of convergence, computational time, and the quality of the solution. The comparison is made on two standard CHP systems subjected to various quality and inequality constraints. The simulation results indicate that the quantum-inspired optimization technique surpassed the other algorithms in both solution quality and computational efficiency. The implemented algorithm provides a promising solution to the optimal dispatch problem of CHP systems. Future research can further explore the application of quantum-inspired optimization algorithms in other energy systems and optimize the algorithm’s parameters to improve its performance.