Sustainable Energy Communities Operation Using Lexicographic Optimization Method

The integration of energy communities into power systems aims to reduce environmental impacts, enhance system reliability, and balance supply and demand. Optimal dispatch of power generation units through unit commitment and economic dispatch methods remains widely used to minimize operational costs and maximize profits in energy communities. However, the traditional use of these approaches often overlooks environmental considerations, which could result in increased fossil fuel use and carbon emissions. In response to tightening environmental regulations and growing demands for sustainability, this study proposes a novel two-stage mixed-integer linear model for energy communities that exploits the lexicographic optimization method to prioritize environmental goals over operating costs. A case study is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in managing future energy communities, enhancing sustainability, and supporting better decision-making.