An innovative approach for demand side management—optimal chiller loading by simulated annealing

This investigation attempts to solve the optimal chiller loading (OCL) problem by utilizing simulated annealing (SA). SA eliminates the limitation that the Lagrangian method cannot solve OCL because the kW-PLR curves simultaneously include convex functions and non-convex functions. This study fully addresses the load balance constraint and chiller operating limits. The case study analysis demonstrates that this method solves the Lagrangian problem and generates highly accurate results. The proposed approach can be applied perfectly to the operation of air conditioning systems.