Optimal load scheduling of demand response in heavy industrial facility based on hierarchical optimization

With the increasing integration of renewable energy and intensifying fluctuations in industrial electricity demand, efficient load management of heavy industrial facilities has become a critical issue in the field of demand response. This study proposes a load scheduling optimization method that combines zoning and hierarchical control. For the steel industry, which is characterized by multiple types of high-energy-consuming equipment, functional zones are first defined based on production processes and load characteristics, followed by hierarchical management within each zone according to the response capability and importance of equipment. Furthermore, a multi-objective optimization model is established that considers dynamic electricity prices, scheduling pressure, equipment response costs, and compensation mechanisms. By setting reasonable scheduling constraints, time-based, hierarchical, and zoned optimization scheduling of various types of equipment is achieved. Simulation results based on a typical steel enterprise demonstrate that the proposed method can ensure stable operation of core production equipment while fully tapping the regulation potential of non-core equipment, thereby enhancing the overall flexibility and economic benefits of the load response. This study provides a theoretical foundation and a practical reference for demand response strategies and intelligent load management in energy-intensive industrial parks.