Stochastic heat storage problem—solved by the progressive hedging algorithm

In the present study, a problem concerning operation of a heat storage tank in connection with a combined heat and power (CHP) plant is considered. The heat storage is used to supply the district heating system when the CHP plant is producing electric power alone and also to redistribute optimally over time the required heat production. Stochasticity is assumed attached to the future power production, and it is assumed that accurate predictions of the future heat consumption are available. A receding horizon idea is used. The problem is solved by the Progressive Hedging Algorithm (PHA), a recently developed method to deal with multi-period optimization problems under uncertainty. The application of the method is explained in detail.