Seminarios de Matemáticas Otoño 2023

Title: "Optimizing EV Charging to Tackle the Duck Curve Challenge"

Abstract:

As renewable energy, particularly solar power, continues to grow, the "duck curve" challenge arises, with peak electricity demand misaligned with renewable energy production. This talk explores cutting-edge strategies for flattening the duck curve through optimized electric vehicle (EV) charging at park-and-ride facilities. The talks begins by presenting an intelligent scheduling framework that reduces power system ramping requirements, minimizing maintenance costs. Real-world data-driven case studies demonstrate significant savings.  Next, an Online Model (OLM) is introduced, utilizing real-time information to enhance EV charging schedules. The OLM, incorporating heuristic and neural network approaches, proves highly efficient in scheduling and promises practicality. We also investigate demand flexibility in EVs, balancing ramp-up requirements with charging station profitability and service quality through a bi-objective approach. Insights reveal the impacts of varying charging capacities on these objectives. Finally, we delve into Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, assessing its potential in mitigating the duck curve while considering battery degradation. Computational experiments highlight trade-offs between curve flattening and battery life. This talk provides a concise overview of innovative EV charging strategies, emphasizing their role in addressing the duck curve challenge and advancing sustainable energy management.

Short Biography:

Raka Jovanović is an accomplished mathematician and optimization expert with an extensive academic and research background. He earned his Dipl. degree, Magistar, and PhD from Belgrade University, Serbia, in 2002, 2007, and 2012, respectively. His academic journey includes positions as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Physics, Belgrade University, Research Associate at Texas A&M University in Qatar. He currently holds position of associate research professor at the University of Belgrade and is a scientist at the Qatar Environment & Energy Research Institute (QEERI), part of Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU).  His contributions to the field of applied mathematics and optimization are evident in his extensive publication record, which includes research on topics such as population-based metaheuristics, mixed integer programming, and neural networks.  He has successfully collaborated with researchers from diverse fields, demonstrating his effective communication skills in bridging interdisciplinary gaps. He has published close to 100 papers.  In addition to his research, Jovanović has made significant contributions to education, mentoring master's and PhD students and holding teaching positions at various universities.  His scientific collaboration extends internationally, with publications and research visits to esteemed institutions worldwide. As a reviewer for top-tier journals and a member of program committees for international conferences, he actively contributes to the advancement of his field. Jovanović's dedication to research, education, and project management underscores his impact on applied mathematics and optimization.