Microgrids (MGs) are typically comprised of distributed generators (DGs) including renewable energy sources (RESs), storage devices and controllable loads, which can operate in either interconnected or isolated mode from the main distribution grid. This paper introduces a novel dynamic programming (DP) approach to MG optimization which takes into consideration the coordination of energy supply in terms of heat and electricity. The DP method has been applied successfully to several cases in power system operations. In this paper, a special emphasis is placed on the uncontrollability of RESs, the constraints of DGs, and the application of demand response (DR) programs such as directed load control (DLC), interruptible/curtaillable (I/C) service, and/or demand-side bidding (DSB) in the deregulated market. Finally, in order to illustrate the optimization results, this approach is applied to a couple of examples of MGs in a certain configuration. The results also show the maximum profit that can be achieved.