A discrete-time scheduling model for continuous power-intensive process networks with various power contracts

•Discrete-time scheduling model based on the concept of operating modes.•Efficient representation of each process by Convex Region Surrogate models.•Considers interaction between different processes in the network.•Block contract formulation for the modeling of common power contracts.•With proposed MILP model, large-scale industrial problems are solved within minutes.

Increased volatility in electricity prices and new emerging demand side management opportunities call for efficient tools for the optimal operation of power-intensive processes. In this work, a general discrete-time model is proposed for the scheduling of power-intensive process networks with various power contracts. The proposed model consists of a network of processes represented by Convex Region Surrogate models that are incorporated in a mode-based scheduling formulation, for which a block contract model is considered that allows the modeling of a large variety of commonly used power contracts. The resulting mixed-integer linear programming model is applied to an illustrative example as well as to a real-world industrial test case. The results demonstrate the model's capability in representing the operational flexibility in a process network and different electricity pricing structures. Moreover, because of its computational efficiency, the model holds much promise for its use in a real industrial setting.