General optimization model for the energy planning of industries including renewable energy: A case study on oil sands

A multi‐period optimization model is developed for the energy procurement planning of industries including renewable energy. The model is developed with the objective of identifying the optimal set of energy supply technologies to satisfy a set of demands (e.g., power, heat, hydrogen, etc.) and emission targets at minimum cost. Time dependent parameters are incorporated in the model formulation, including demands, fuel prices, emission targets, carbon tax, lead time, etc. The model is applied to a case study based on the oil sands operations over the planning period 2015–2050. Various production alternatives were incorporated, including renewable, nuclear, conventional and gasification of alternative fuels. The results obtained indicated that the energy optimization model is a practical tool that can be utilized for identifying the key parameters that affect the operations of energy‐intensive industrial operations, and can further assist in the planning and scheduling of the energy for these industries. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 610–638, 2017