Abstract
This paper presents a robust optimisation framework for long-term composite generation and transmission expansion planning problem which considers inherent uncertainties such as load growth, fuel cost and renewable energy output uncertainties. In this paper, a bi-level robust optimisation framework is proposed to accommodate wind output uncertainty in line with the uncertain demanded loads and uncertain fuel cost. The addressed optimisation problem is modelled as a mixed-integer optimisation framework with the objective of providing a robust expansion plan while maintaining the minimum cost expansion. In order to evaluate the robustness of each plan, an off-line Lattice Monte Carlo simulation technique is adopted in this study. The validity of the proposed method is examined on a simple six-bus and modified IEEE 118-bus test system as a large-scale case study. The simulation results show that the presented method is both satisfactory and consistent with expectation. © 2016 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Abstract
This paper proposes a robust optimization framework for energy hub management. It is well known that the operation of energy systems can be negatively affected by uncertain parameters, such as stochastic load demand or generation. In this regard, it is of high significance to propose efficient tools in order to deal with uncertainties and to provide reliable operating conditions. On a broader scale, an energy hub includes diverse energy sources for supplying both electrical load and heating/cooling demands with stochastic behaviors. Therefore, this paper utilizes the Information Gap Decision Theory (IGDT) to tackle this uncertainty as an efficient robust optimization tool with low complexity to ensure the optimal operation of the system according to the priorities of the decision maker entity. The proposed optimization framework is also implemented on a benchmark energy hub which includes different energy sources and evaluated under different working conditions. © 2017 IEEE.

Abstract
The concept of the water, energy, food nexus is extremely relevant to Kazakhstan as the country faces population growth, economic progress and environmental challenges such as water scarcity, desertification, and climate change. Furthermore, poor sectoral coordination and inadequate infrastructure have caused unsustainable resource use and threaten the long-term water, energy and food security in Kazakhstan. This study presents the key elements required to implement a nexus-based resource management approach in Kazakhstan, by identifying linkages between water resources, energy production and agriculture. A case study illustrates how this methodology can be applied to quantify linkages between the water and energy sectors.

Abstract

Abstract
?Finite element analysis is widely used in engineering, and has for some time been used in modelling the behaviour of an induction motor. Limitations and challenges of this approach will be addressed over a case-study commercial 0,37 kW, 4-pole squirrel-cage induction motor simulated using two-dimensional software FEMM. A few notes on the consideration of rotor skew and harmonic distortion in such a model are also included.

Abstract
This paper aims at presenting the development of a calibrated building energy simulation model of a school building to study the impact of improving the ventilation system on energy performance. The simulation model was developed with the DesignBudderlEnergyplus software and it was calibrated based on data collected during an energy audit to the school building. Schools need high outdoor airflow rates to remove indoor air contaminants related to occupants and building components, thus requiring mechanical ventilation systems. Due to budget restrictions, school managers decided to schedule the building management system to keep the HVAC systems active only between 6:00 am and 10:00 am. According to the values measured in this school, it was patent that the CO2 concentration was too high in certain periods. Too high peak values undermine the indoor air quality in the remaining occupancy time of the classroom, harming the work conditions for teachers and students. To solve this problem, an extended usage schedule of the mechanical ventilation was simulated (8:00 am to 5:00 pm) according to the required enhancement of indoor air quality, which together with the adoption of the new calculated fresh air flow rates will enhance air quality while avoiding excessive cost, thus increasing energy efficiency. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.