Optimal time period clustering of time-of-use schemes based on elastic loads' responsiveness

In time-of-use (TOU) schemes, most similar clusters to load demand can properly map the consumption pattern. However, the performance of such scheme is affected by the load responsiveness to the obtained clusters. This paper presents a time period clustering approach for TOU schemes to find the optimal clusters, using not only the load patterns but also its modified version obtained by responsiveness of elastic loads. A responsive load model is employed to simulate the load pattern modifications considering the hourly prices, load elasticities, and customers' benefit function. An imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) has been designed to iteratively solve the problem. The proposed approach maximizes the load factors pertaining to the modified seasonal load patterns that are obtained on the basis of load responsiveness to the allocated clusters in each iteration of ICA. A comprehensive seasonal case study has been conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed model. Results and comparisons show that the proposed clustering technique can significantly enhance the performance of the existing TOU schemes in terms of load factor improvement and peak reduction as it considers both load patterns and the actual load responsiveness to the obtained clusters.