App Deconfliction: Orchestrating Distributed, Multi-Agent, Multi-Objective Operations for Power Systems
Andrew P. Reiman, Shiva Poudel, Monish Mukherjee, Alexander Anderson, Orestis Vasios, Tylor Slay, Gary D. Black, Anamika Dubey, James Ogle
Abstract
Advanced distribution systems need to integrate and orchestrate intelligent subsystems and grid-edge devices that are increasing both in number and sophistication while also serving multiple system-level objectives such as resilience, decarbonization, equity, and profitability. A modular platform-based approach to distribution system operations technology enables operators to deploy a tailored set of best-of-breed algorithms and applications. Combined with the parallel deployment and control of intelligent grid-edge and Internet-of-things devices, this creates a complex environment of distributed-control environment with applications that spans ownership boundaries. Conflicts can emerge between applications that want to control overlapping sets of device setpoints. We propose a formalized approach to resolving these conflicts that can be applied when integrating new algorithms or developing customized solutions. A Deconfliction Pipeline is inserted between the device-controlling applications and the device protocol converter, which transmits control setpoints from the operations platform to the devices. The Deconfliction Pipeline executes a process that sets up, solves, and acts on a formally defined deconfliction problem. The deconfliction problem can be solved using a combination of rules and heuristics, application engagement, and optimization. We demonstrate how a few of the most basic solution strategies can be used to orchestrate harmonious behavior between a pair of simple applications with conflicting greedy optimization objectives.