An economic receding horizon optimization approach for energy management in the chlor-alkali process with hybrid renewable energy generation

• The chlor-alkali process is analyzed and modeled.
• Renewable energy generation and hydrogen recovery are proposed.
• Receding horizon optimization is applied to achieve economically optimal energy management strategies.
• Uncertainty analysis and demand response strategies are integrated and discussed.

This paper presents a methodology for the application of receding horizon optimization techniques to the problem of optimally managing the energy flows in the chlor-alkali process using a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES). The HRES consists of solar and wind energy generation units and fuel cells to supply energy. The HRES is also connected to the grid and allows for buying or selling electricity from and to the grid. Initially, detailed models of each system component are introduced as the basis for the simulation study. Energy management strategies are then developed to realize the objectives of meeting production requirements while minimizing the overall operating and environmental costs. Sensitivity and uncertainty analyses are carried out to elucidate the key parameters that influence the energy management strategies. Finally, production demand response is integrated into the proposed methodology.