Abstract
Smart local energy networks provide an opportunity for more penetration of distributed energy resources. However, these resources cause an extra dependency in both time and carrier domains that should be considered through a comprehensive model. Hence, this paper introduces a new concept for internal and external dependencies in Smart Multi-Energy Systems (SMES). Internal dependencies are caused by converters and storages existing in operation centers and modeled by coupling matrix. On the other hand, external dependencies are defined as the behavior of multi-energy demand in shifting among carriers or time periods. In this paper, system dependency is modeled based on energy hub approach through adding virtual ports and making new coupling matrix. Being achieved by SMESs, the dependencies release demand-side flexibility and subsequently enhance system efficiency. Moreover, a test SMES that includes several elements and multi-energy demand in output is applied to show the effectiveness of the model.

Abstract
Smart local energy networks represent a key option for more penetration of sustainably developed facilities. These facilities can cause an extended dependency in both time and carrier domains which should be considered through a comprehensive model. This paper introduces a new concept of internal and external dependencies. The concept is related to penetration of energy converters on demand side and the effects they bring to the system. Being achieved by implementation of smart grid, dependencies release operational flexibility and subsequently enhance the system efficiency. The model contains, carrier based demand response which preserves consumers satisfaction by utilizing the flexibility in exchanging the input energy carrier instead of changing end-usage pattern. The paper develops the coupling matrix model for smart multi-energy systems considering the external dependency as an added module to the overall model.

Abstract
New technologies such as Plug-in Electric Vehicles or PEVs bring new trends in areas where multi entities interact. One of these areas is the facilities in cities for better manipulation of technologies. Encouraging the utilization of PEVs necessitates the provision of charging stations. In this regard, PEV Parking Lots (PLs) can be a great help as they can solve both urban and electrical problem of PEVs. On the other hand, gathering numerous PEVs in one point like PLs provides the system operator with the opportunity of PEVs batteries that can be used as potential storages. Therefore, in this paper, the optimum behavior of PEV PLs is modeled while they contribute their batteries' capacity in both energy and reserve market. The charging schedule of PLs with various numbers of stations has been reported as well as their share in the market as an energy source during peak hours.

Abstract
Emerging trends in electric vehicles both in science and industry, as well as increasing popularity of these devices among end-users have laid serious issues in front of a system operator or planner. Higher deployment of available resources in the system will lead to higher flexibility for system operator in its interactions, besides to higher level of user satisfaction. In this study, various states of a 13 bus radial distribution network have been considered for allocation of Plug-in Electric Vehicles' (PEVs') parking lots. As Renewable Energy Resources (RERs) are becoming a main element of power systems, it is investigated how the future distribution network planning has to be organized by employing both RERs and PEV parking lots. Also, it is investigated how the allocation of parking lots varies in the system where these resources exist. Moreover, the costs and revenues obtained by the system operator in such systems are also studied.

Abstract
Renewable energy sources (RES) used in small-scale distributed generation systems are a promising alternative for additional energy supply toward smarter and more sustainable cities. However, their proper integration as new infrastructures of the smart city (SMCT) requires understanding the SMCT architecture and promoting changes to the existing regulation, business models, and power grid topology and operation, constituting a new challenging energy supply paradigm. This chapter addresses the use of renewable energy systems on small scale, oriented to distributed generation (DG) for households or districts, integrated in an SMCT. In this context, the main renewable energies and companion technologies are reviewed, and their profitability investigated to highlight their current economic feasibility. A simplified architecture for SMCT development is presented, consisting of three interconnected layers, the intelligence layer, the communication layer, and the infrastructure layer. The integration and impact of distributed renewable energy generation and storage technologies in this architecture is analyzed. Special attention is paid to the grid topology for their technical and efficient integration, and to the business models for facilitating their economic integration and feasibility. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2014.

Abstract
Combining large penetration of Plug-in Electric Vehicles (PEVs) and generation from Renewable Energy Sources (RES) seems a promising solution for energy cost saving and emission reduction. Indeed, RES generation increases instability grid problems due to its intermittency and lack of correlation with final energy usage. But the energy storage of the PEVs connected to the grid, controlled with smart charging and generating strategies, can compensate these uncertainties: energy surplus at low demands and high RES production (strong wind or sunshine) can be returned from PEVs to the grid at larger demand periods, and even provide regulation services. This paper analyses the combined impact of PEVs and RES penetration in the current Spanish power system with a detailed hydro-thermal Unit Commitment (UC) model for energy and reserve. Different charging strategies (from plug-and-charge to V2G with regulation) and wind and solar power penetration are tested with a full year simulation with weekly water management. Simulations show how PEVs smart charging strategies adapt PEVs operation to the existing generation structure, contributing efficiently to higher RES penetration rates, decreasing emissions and system operation costs. © 2014 IEEE.