Distributed model predictive control for coordinated, grid-interactive buildings.

Continued focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency requires buildings to become grid-interactive and not just behave as static consumers. A distributed model predictive control (DMPC) algorithm known as Limited-Communication (LC) DMPC is modified to enable grid-interactive buildings. A grid-aggregator subsystem is added that allows for a bulk grid power reference signal to be followed while the individual building subsystems also achieve their local comfort objectives. The LC-DMPC algorithm is applied for the first time to systems with multiple buildings. Adequate power tracking is shown for different simulation scenarios involving heterogeneous buildings, and next steps are discussed. • Grid-aggregator system for distributed, coordinated, grid-interactive building control. • Limited-Communication Distributed MPC applied to multiple, heterogeneous buildings. • Achieves higher-level grid requests and local building comfort priorities [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]