Modelling of Energy-Hubs

Abstract

This master’s thesis addresses the modelling, simulation, and optimisation of energy hubs in MATLAB/Simulink. Energy hubs are systems capable of integrating, converting, storing and distributing multiple energy carriers such as electricity, heat, cooling and compressed air. The primary objective of the thesis is to build a flexible and extendable framework that allows both, the linear and nonlinear optimisation of single and interconnected energy hubs. To achieve this, a detailed review of key components such as converters (e.g., combined heat and power, large scale heat pumps, boilers, chillers) and storage systems (e.g., batteries, compressed air, flywheels, thermal storage) was conducted. Mathematical models were developed for these technologies and embedded into an energy hub framework. Additionally, a cost model was introduced, enabling the incorporation of energy pricing and emission-related objectives. The approach begins with a single energy hub and evolves into a multicarrier energy system. Various case studies demonstrate how the system can be extended with electrical and thermal storage and how energy flows and system behaviour change under different optimisation criteria. Methods used include steady-state modelling, mixedinteger nonlinear programming, and time-dependent energy balance equations. The developed MATLAB framework serves as a robust tool for future research and practical energy planning applications.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English
Supervisor	Harald Kirchsteiger (Supervisor)