Integrated Optimization and Game Theory Framework for Fair Cost Allocation in Community Microgrids

TL;DR

This paper introduces a combined optimization and game theory framework for fair cost sharing in community microgrids, improving efficiency and participant satisfaction through equitable benefit distribution.

Contribution

It presents a novel integrated approach using mixed-integer programming and Shapley value analysis for fair, efficient microgrid cost allocation, validated with real-world data.

Findings

Peak demand reductions of 7.8% to 62.6%

Solar utilization rates up to 114.8%

Cooperative gains of up to $1,801.01 per day

Abstract

Fair cost allocation in community microgrids remains a significant challenge due to the complex interactions between multiple participants with varying load profiles, distributed energy resources, and storage systems. Traditional cost allocation methods often fail to adequately address the dynamic nature of participant contributions and benefits, leading to inequitable distribution of costs and reduced participant satisfaction. This paper presents a novel framework integrating multi-objective optimization with cooperative game theory for fair and efficient microgrid operation and cost allocation. The proposed approach combines mixed-integer linear programming for optimal resource dispatch with Shapley value analysis for equitable benefit distribution, ensuring both system efficiency and participant satisfaction. The framework was validated using real-world data across six distinct operational scenarios, demonstrating significant improvements in both technical and economic performance. Results show peak demand reductions ranging from 7.8% to 62.6%, solar utilization rates reaching 114.8% through effective storage integration, and cooperative gains of up to $1,801.01 per day. The Shapley value-based allocation achieved balanced benefit-cost distributions, with net positions ranging from -16.0% to +14.2% across different load categories, ensuring sustainable participant cooperation.