Optimal Battery Management Model for Profit-Oriented Grid-Connected Solar-Powered Smart Farms

The increasing integration of renewable energy systems with agricultural infrastructure creates significant opportunities for sustainable and additional income beyond traditional agricultural harvests. This research proposes a mixed-integer linear programming model for grid-connected, solar-powered smart farms, with the aim of maximizing net profit through optimal management of battery energy storage system (BESS) and the sale of surplus energy to the grid as an extra revenue stream. Simulations are conducted over a one-week period using Time-of-Use (ToU) tariffs, considering various weather conditions such as sunny, cloudy, and rainy days. The results show that generating profit is feasible on sunny and cloudy days, while losses are incurred during rainy days. This study demonstrates the viability of enabling farmers to invest in renewable energy technologies by showcasing a cost-effective energy management strategy that optimizes energy usage, reduces reliance on grid electricity, and lowers operational costs, thereby empowering them to adopt sustainable practices that not only support environmental goals but also enhance long-term economic benefits.