A hybrid green energy-based framework with a multi-objective optimization approach for optimal frost prevention in horticulture

TL;DR

This paper introduces a hybrid renewable energy system with multi-objective optimization to efficiently prevent frost in large-scale orchards, reducing costs and increasing frost protection effectiveness.

Contribution

It presents a novel hybrid energy-based frost prevention framework combined with a multi-objective optimization approach for orchard heating system design.

Findings

24.13% reduction in pipe length compared to heuristic design

54.29% increase in frost prevention effectiveness

Potential cost savings demonstrated in case study

Abstract

In this paper, first we propose a novel hybrid renewable energy-based solution for frost prevention in horticulture applications involving active heaters. Then, we develop a multi-objective robust optimization-based formulation to optimize the distribution of a given number of active heaters in a given large-scale orchard. The objectives are to optimally heat the orchard by the proposed frost prevention system and to minimize the total length of the energy distribution pipe network (which is directly related to the installation cost and the cost of energy losses during energy transfer). Next, the resulting optimization problem is approximated using a discretization scheme. A case study is provided to give an idea of the potential savings using the proposed optimization method compared to the result from a heuristic-based design, which showed a 24.13% reduction in the total pipe length and a 54.29% increase in frost prevention.