Hybrid Evolutionary Algorithms for Multi-Objective Optimization in Energy Systems

Authors

  • Arthur Sinclair Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
  • Elliot Wainwright Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
  • Peter Carver Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA

Keywords:

Hybrid evolutionary algorithms, multi-objective optimization, energy systems, smart grids, renewable integration, computational intelligence, system resilience, distributed optimization

Abstract

Modern energy systems are undergoing a profound transformation driven by increasing penetration of renewable energy resources, decentralization of generation assets, and the integration of advanced information and communication technologies. These transitions introduce significant complexity into system planning and operational decision-making, particularly due to competing objectives such as cost minimization, carbon emission reduction, reliability enhancement, and resilience against disruptions. Traditional optimization techniques often struggle to address such high-dimensional, nonlinear, and conflicting objective spaces. In response, hybrid evolutionary algorithms have emerged as a powerful class of computational approaches capable of exploring large solution spaces while maintaining flexibility in handling multi-objective trade-offs. This paper presents a comprehensive systems-level examination of hybrid evolutionary algorithms for multi-objective optimization in energy systems. It synthesizes methodological advancements in evolutionary computation with domain-specific requirements in modern energy infrastructures, including power grids, distributed energy resources, microgrids, and smart grid architectures. The discussion emphasizes architectural design considerations, algorithmic hybridization strategies, and the integration of domain knowledge into evolutionary search processes. Particular attention is given to the interplay between optimization performance and system-level constraints such as regulatory compliance, fairness in energy distribution, and operational robustness under uncertainty. Beyond algorithmic development, this work explores governance and deployment implications of adopting hybrid evolutionary frameworks in real-world energy systems. It highlights how these approaches can support decision-making in long-term planning, real-time dispatch, and adaptive control environments. The paper concludes by identifying emerging challenges in scalability, interpretability, and integration with data-driven predictive models, positioning hybrid evolutionary optimization as a foundational tool for next-generation sustainable energy infrastructures.

References

Deb, K. (2001). Multi-objective optimization using evolutionary algorithms. Wiley.

Zitzler, E., Laumanns, M., & Thiele, L. (2001). SPEA2: Improving the strength Pareto evolutionary algorithm. TIK Report.

Coello Coello, C. A., Lamont, G. B., & Van Veldhuizen, D. A. (2007). Evolutionary algorithms for solving multi-objective problems. Springer.

Kennedy, J., & Eberhart, R. (1995). Particle swarm optimization. Proceedings of IEEE ICNN.

Storn, R., & Price, K. (1997). Differential evolution – a simple and efficient heuristic. Journal of Global Optimization.

Holland, J. H. (1992). Adaptation in natural and artificial systems. MIT Press.

Mitchell, M. (1998). An introduction to genetic algorithms. MIT Press.

Talbi, E. G. (2009). Metaheuristics: From design to implementation. Wiley.

Yang, X. S. (2010). Engineering optimization via nature-inspired algorithms. Wiley.

Blum, C., & Roli, A. (2003). Metaheuristics in combinatorial optimization. ACM Computing Surveys.

Glover, F., & Laguna, M. (1997). Tabu search. Springer.

Snyder, L. V., & Shen, Z. J. M. (2019). Fundamentals of supply chain theory. Wiley.

Sorensen, K., & Glover, F. (2013). Metaheuristics. European Journal of Operational Research.

Morales, J. M., Conejo, A. J., Madsen, H., Pinson, P., & Zugno, M. (2013). Integrating renewables in electricity markets. Springer.

Conejo, A. J., Carrión, M., & Morales, J. M. (2010). Decision making under uncertainty in electricity markets. Springer.

Palensky, P., & Dietrich, D. (2011). Demand side management: Demand response. IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics.

Hatziargyriou, N. (2014). Microgrids: Architectures and control. Wiley-IEEE Press.

Lund, H. (2007). Renewable energy strategies for sustainable development. Energy.

Kersting, W. H. (2012). Distribution system modeling and analysis. CRC Press.

Farhangi, H. (2010). The path of the smart grid. IEEE Power and Energy Magazine.

Moslehi, K., & Kumar, R. (2010). Smart grid—A reliability perspective. IEEE PES.

Wang, J., Shahidehpour, M., & Li, Z. (2008). Security-constrained unit commitment. IEEE Transactions on Power Systems.

Ibrahim, H., Ilinca, A., & Perron, J. (2008). Energy storage systems. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews.

Ackermann, T. (2005). Wind power in power systems. Wiley.

Jung, J., & Villanueva, D. (2017). Digital twins in cyber-physical systems. IEEE Access.

Panchal, S., et al. (2018). Artificial intelligence in smart grids. IEEE Access.

Boussaïd, I., Lepagnot, J., & Siarry, P. (2013). A survey on optimization metaheuristics. Information Sciences.

Reddy, M. J., & Kumar, D. N. (2012). Multi-objective evolutionary algorithms in water resources systems. Water Resources Management.

Vasant, P. (2014). Optimization in renewable energy systems. Springer.

Wolsink, M. (2012). The research agenda on social acceptance of distributed generation. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews.

Lund, P. D., Lindgren, J., Mikkola, J., & Salpakari, J. (2015). Review of energy system flexibility measures. Energy.

Zhang, Q., & Li, H. (2007). MOEA/D: Multiobjective evolutionary algorithm based on decomposition. IEEE Transactions on Evolutionary Computation.

Published

2024-03-15

How to Cite

Arthur Sinclair, Elliot Wainwright, & Peter Carver. (2024). Hybrid Evolutionary Algorithms for Multi-Objective Optimization in Energy Systems. Computational Intelligence Systems, 2(1). Retrieved from https://www.scivexus.org/index.php/CIS/article/view/296