Component and Mode Models for the Short-Term Scheduling of Combined-Cycle Units

We propose a component model for the scheduling of combined-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) units by mixed-integer programming (MIP) in which combustion turbines (CTs) and steam turbines (STs) are modeled as individual units. The hourly schedule of CCGT based on the component model is compared with that of the mode model. The modeling of modes, which includes a combination of CTs and STs, would require certain approximations for representing fuel input-power output curves, ramping rate limits, minimum operating time limits, etc. The approximations can result in sub-optimal schedules. Furthermore, the commitment and dispatch of CCGTs based on the mode model will require a real-time dispatch to individual CT and ST components of CCGT. In comparison, the mode modeling approximations will no longer be required in the component model as individual CTs and STs are modeled and dispatched. The enhancement tools such as duct burners, loggers, and peak firing for increasing the CCGT output can be easily modeled in the component model. Case studies show that the proposed component model is effective for representing CCGTs, and verify that the proposed component model can potentially save CCGT operating costs. Numerical simulations in this paper also demonstrate the application of the component model of CCGT to schedule a cogeneration unit.