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A Decentralized Hierarchical Multi-Agent Framework for Smart Grid Sustainable Energy Management

Author

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  • Otilia Elena Dragomir

    (Automation, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering Department, Valahia University of Târgoviște, 13 Aleea Sinaia Street, 130004 Târgoviște, Romania)

  • Florin Dragomir

    (Automation, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering Department, Valahia University of Târgoviște, 13 Aleea Sinaia Street, 130004 Târgoviște, Romania)

Abstract

This paper aims to design and implement a decentralized multi-agent hierarchical system for energy management that can perform real-time monitoring and management of a real-world power grid with penetration of renewable energy. This approach integrates intelligent solutions based on intelligent agents to provide scalable and reliable management of smart power grids. The proposed decentralized multi-agent hierarchical system architecture allows for balancing multiple objectives, such as cost and environmental impact, in the design and operation of the energy system. The testing and tuning of this system are based on simulating real-time data flow and feedback between monitoring and control agents within a multi-agent environment modelling a smart grid. The added value of this study lies in its integrated approach to smart grid energy management, which combines real-time monitoring, decentralized control, hierarchical architecture, and consideration of both economic and environmental factors. Moreover, the use of multi-agent systems for simulation further enhances the adaptability and scalability of the system, and the focus on prosumers and the integration of renewable energy sources make it a relevant contribution to the field of sustainable energy management. While the results are promising, the current simulation framework is based on single-run experiments, limiting the statistical strength of outcome interpretations. Future research will address these aspects through expanded statistical validation, the inclusion of performance indicators, and deployment scenarios in more complex, real-world energy systems to enhance the robustness and applicability of the approach.

Suggested Citation

  • Otilia Elena Dragomir & Florin Dragomir, 2025. "A Decentralized Hierarchical Multi-Agent Framework for Smart Grid Sustainable Energy Management," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-19, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:12:p:5423-:d:1677416
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Alfonso González-Briones & Fernando De La Prieta & Mohd Saberi Mohamad & Sigeru Omatu & Juan M. Corchado, 2018. "Multi-Agent Systems Applications in Energy Optimization Problems: A State-of-the-Art Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 11(8), pages 1-28, July.
    2. Chen, Xiao & Wang, Qian & Srebric, Jelena, 2016. "Occupant feedback based model predictive control for thermal comfort and energy optimization: A chamber experimental evaluation," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 164(C), pages 341-351.
    3. Mathiesen, B.V. & Lund, H. & Connolly, D. & Wenzel, H. & Østergaard, P.A. & Möller, B. & Nielsen, S. & Ridjan, I. & Karnøe, P. & Sperling, K. & Hvelplund, F.K., 2015. "Smart Energy Systems for coherent 100% renewable energy and transport solutions," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 145(C), pages 139-154.
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