This paper presents the application of Hierarchical Model Predictive Control (HMPC) as an energy management framework for a multi-timescale mixed-energy system, i.e., Power-to-X (PtX). The goal of the energy managing controller is to minimize an economic objective by determining the energy flows within the system. HMPC enables a long-term scheduling solution to anticipate ahead of the seasonal energy mismatches occurring in PtX systems. This paper presents a novel approach to couple the separate control layers in the hierarchy by heuristic assignment to fully employ the PtX fundamentals in the controller design. Simulation results based on historical data of the Dutch energy sector show the suitability of HMPC and its superiority over a rule-based control approach. The proposed controller may, however, also be used for any configuration of multi-timescale mixed-energy systems dealing with temporal energy mismatches.

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You read about it every day: How can we create a sustainable, reliable and affordable energy supply? Does a local water supply play a role in this? Why don’t we drive hydrogen cars that are powered by the sun and rain? The availability of cheap green energy is increasing. We have solar and wind power, and even energy derived from ambient heat. At the same time we have very diverse energy needs: fuel for cars, electricity, heat for buildings, feedstock for industrial processes, to name just a few. Energy supply and demand do not match, which means that we have to match resources, storage and consumption in an intelligent way. Solar Power to the People casts a thoughtful vision on sustainable energy. We have to bring the power of the sun to the people. That is what sustainable energy and water is all about. The authors believe we have to act quickly. The matter is urgent.@en