Day-Ahead Scheduling Optimization Model of a Natural Gas Pipeline Network Considering User’s Hourly Consumption Characteristics

In the scheduling of natural gas for hourly distribution, the network features a variety of control modes and diverse consumer types. Currently, there is a deficiency in the precise management of hourly distribution tailored to specific consumers. This study developed an optimization model for the hourly distribution in natural gas networks, grounded in control mode theory. The model’s objective function is designed to minimize the energy consumption of network compressors, subject to constraints imposed by four control modes: quota completion cutoff, equal distribution over remaining hours, improved equal distribution over remaining hours, and the weighted coefficient. Utilizing an independent time layer approach, the hourly distribution optimization model (HDO model) identifies the optimal control mode for various consumer types. Validation through a case study and comparative analysis with the daily operation optimization model (DOO model) in natural gas networks illustrated the beneficial impact of incorporating control modes on operational efficiency. The results show that by implementing this distribution scheme in a multiuser natural gas network, the HDO model reduces compressor energy consumption by 8.11% compared with the DOO model. This underscores the critical role of integrating control modes into the optimization process, laying the foundation for the stable and efficient operation of the natural gas network.