Forecasting short-term energy consumption in Chongqing using a novel grey Bernoulli model

Purpose Traditional grey models are integer order whitening differential models; these models are relatively effective for the prediction of regular raw data, but the prediction error of irregular series or shock series is large, and the prediction effect is not ideal. Design/methodology/approach The new model realizes the dynamic expansion and optimization of the grey Bernoulli model. Meanwhile, it also enhances the variability and self-adaptability of the model structure. And nonlinear parameters are computed by the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Findings Establishing a prediction model based on the raw data from the last six years, it is verified that the prediction performance of the new model is far superior to other mainstream grey prediction models, especially for irregular sequences and oscillating sequences. Ultimately, forecasting models are constructed to calculate various energy consumption aspects in Chongqing. The findings of this study offer a valuable reference for the government in shaping energy consumption policies and optimizing the energy structure. Research limitations/implications It is imperative to recognize its inherent limitations. Firstly, the fractional differential order of the model is restricted to 0 < a < 2, encompassing only a three-parameter model. Future investigations could delve into the development of a multi-parameter model applicable when a = 2. Secondly, this paper exclusively focuses on the model itself, neglecting the consideration of raw data preprocessing, such as smoothing operators, buffer operators and background values. Incorporating these factors could significantly enhance the model’s effectiveness, particularly in the context of medium-term or long-term predictions. Practical implications This contribution plays a constructive role in expanding the model repertoire of the grey prediction model. The utilization of the developed model for predicting total energy consumption, coal consumption, natural gas consumption, oil consumption and other energy sources from 2021 to 2022 validates the efficacy and feasibility of the innovative model. Social implications These findings, in turn, provide valuable guidance and decision-making support for both the Chinese Government and the Chongqing Government in optimizing energy structure and formulating effective energy policies. Originality/value This research holds significant importance in enriching the theoretical framework of the grey prediction model. Highlights The highlights of the paper are as follows: A novel grey Bernoulli prediction model is proposed to improve the model’s structure. Fractional derivative, fractional accumulating generation operator and Bernoulli equation are added to the new model. The proposed model can achieve full compatibility with the traditional mainstream grey prediction models. Energy consumption in Chongqing verifies that the performance of the new model is much better than that of the traditional grey models. The research provides a reference basis for the government to formulate energy consumption policies and optimize energy structure.