In the research project “iNeP – Integrierte Netzplanung” a novel integrated grid expansion planning methodology is being developed. The new method integrates the electrical, heating and gas grids in a multi-energy grid in the context of the transition towards decarbonization. The rapid expansion of the electrical distribution grid presents significant challenges. The industrial sector's inclination towards hydrogen as a primary decarbonization strategy further complicates the landscape. This thesis explores innovative strategies for optimizing multi-energy grid expansion ensuring efficiency and security during the transition.

The primary objective of this research is to develop a grid planning optimization method that utilizes a graph theory-based model for the multi-energy grid. This model will represent sector-coupling technologies as vertices that connect various grids, with edges symbolizing the energy carriers and their directional flow. The focus is to create a unified graphical representation of the entire multi-energy system, encompassing electricity, heating, and gas sectors as shown in Figure 1. Graph theory-based approaches also offer great advantages in solving complex grid optimization problems by enabling the application of energy routing as well as cost minimization algorithms.

The expected outcome is a comprehensive method for cross-sector grid planning using graph theory implemented on suitable examples.

The following structuring of the work is suggested:

• Initial training in Python tools for grid calculation (Pandapower, Pandapipes) and graph theory.
• Research in graph theory.
• State-of-the-art analysis in multi-energy grid modeling.
• Developing a suitable use case for planning a multi-energy grid.
• Developing a method for generating multi-energy network models using graph theory.
• Developing a grid planning optimization method utilizing the graph theoretical model.
• Application of the method to the planning use case.
• Discussion and validation of the results.

Following this work, the results are to be reported in a presentation.

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