The modern power generation systems are increasing their reliance on high penetrations of distributed energy resources (DERs). However, the optimal dispatching mechanisms mainly rely on central controls which receive the load demand information from the electricity utility providers and allocate the electricity production targets to participating generating units. The lack of transparency and control over the DER fuel inputs makes the physical power purchase agreements (PPAs) a cumbersome task. This research work proposes an innovative fractal moth flame optimization (FMFO) approach to tackle the problem of integrated load dispatch (ILD). The proposed methodology provides a mechanism to integrate the information of the proposed optimizer, i.e., FMFO into the smart contracts enabled by the blockchain technology. This problem entails the allocation of loads to power-generating units in a manner that minimizes the total generation cost in a decentralized manner. To improve the efficiency of dispatch operations in the presence of a substantial integration of wind energy, this study proposes a novel framework based on the principles of fractal heritage, drawing inspiration from the classical MFO method. To assess the effectiveness and adaptability of the algorithm suggested, various non-convex scenarios in the context of optimization for ILD are considered. These scenarios incorporate valve-point loading effects (VPLEs), capacity limitations, power plants with multiple fuel options, and the presence of stochastic wind (SW) power uncertainty, following a Weibull distribution. The findings demonstrate exceptional performance in terms of minimizing fuel generation costs compared to traditional algorithms.

Energy hub stations represent a transformative approach to modern energy systems, functioning as flexible nodes within distribution networks. By seamlessly integrating electric vehicles (EVs) and battery energy storage systems (BESSs), these hubs address critical challenges such as grid stress, renewable energy utilization, and peak load management. This study introduces a novel mathematical optimization model designed to maximize the operational flexibility of EV charging stations by transforming them into fully functional energy hubs. The model incorporates key parameters such as energy demands, load profiles, and grid conditions to optimize the sizing and operation of distributed energy resources, including photovoltaic (PV) systems and BESSs. The proposed approach minimizes grid dependency, enabling energy hubs to efficiently operate varying levels of operational flexibility, from full reliance on grid power to complete independence. The results reveal that, by effectively shifting energy usage away from peak periods and leveraging PV generation, energy hubs emerge as a critical component of sustainable energy systems and can independently support approximately 45% of their load, with minimal PV and BESS capacities. It also reveals a direct correlation between higher flexibility levels and increased infrastructure requirements for PV systems and BESSs. The proposed model underscores the critical role of energy hubs in facilitating the global shift toward decarbonization, aligning with contemporary goals for resilient and environmentally sustainable energy ecosystems. This work provides a scalable framework for future energy systems, with significant implications for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable mobility.

Despite extensive research on integrating Substrate IntegratedWaveguide (SIW) technologies with conventional transmission technologies such as Microstrip Transmission Line (MSTL), Co-planar Waveguide (CPW), Rectangular Waveguide (RWG), and Coaxial lines, a comprehensive evaluation and design framework has yet to be explored. This review addresses this critical gap by providing a detailed examination of recent advancements in interconnect technologies at millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies. The paper identifies unresolved challenges and introduces a Figure-of-Merit ( FoM ) for the first time designed to evaluate and decide the state-of-the-art in interconnect technologies. Furthermore, it proposes a novel design flow that aids interconnect designers by integrating reported advances into a well-defined process. As such, the study provides a basis for further developments, leveraging existing and SIW technologies to ease mmWave system development, along with a commercial perspective.

In this paper, a simple linearly tapered transition from a rectangular waveguide (RWG) to an air-filled SIW (AFSIW) is designed by analytically formulating its length, which optimizes the impedance matching and insertion loss over the wide millimeter wave frequency range. Several of these transitions are used to realize back-to-back and transmission systems supporting different waveguides. Their performances in terms of S 11 and S 21 are simulated and found to be <-10 dB and >-0.21 dB across the frequency bands of operation, respectively. The prototype of the transition in transmission system configuration supporting the WR-15 waveguide is developed, and its measured values from 50 to 75 GHz correlate very well with the simulated results. When the measured S 21 and BW of the developed prototype are compared to similar works reported in the literature, the benefits of the proposed transition are confirmed for developing low-cost future generations of wireless technology systems.