MICROGRIDS

Microgrids: Empowering Communities and Enhancing Resilience

As of the beginning of 2023, there were approximately 692 microgrids within the United States. As the country (and much of the world) strives to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and other non-renewable energy sources while improving resilience in extreme weather conditions, the use of Microgrids will likely expand worldwide. If you’re interested in sustainability and renewable energy, microgrids should be on your radar.


A Microgrid is a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. 

Most sustainable Microgrids rely solely on renewable energy sources. These independent energy systems have clearly defined electrical boundaries and can connect to a main power grid or operate completely independently of larger energy systems (macrogrids). Microgrids consist of power systems, energy storage systems, control systems, and distribution infrastructure. If non-renewable energy sources are part of the power systems, then the energy storage systems and control methods can work to utilize renewable energy first. This, in turn, can reduce the need for non-renewable energy sources while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental damage. 

MICROGRIDS, THE FUTURE

Microgrids can vary in their operation based on how they are configured and the specific energy sources they use. However, most microgridswill consist of some combination of the following

  • Power sources – These are the resources that produce energy for the microgrid itself. These can be renewable resources (such as wind turbines and solar panels) but may also consist of some non-renewable options — all depending on the configuration. 
  • Energy storage systems – As the phrase implies, an energy storage system is a device (such as a battery) where energy created can be effectively stored until demand arises. Energy storage systems can also be useful for storing power for use when there is a pause in energy generation (as may be the case at night with solar power resources). 
  • Control system – Microgrids also have control systems, which may consist of load management tools, metering devices, and other tools that help the microgrid operate efficiently. Additionally, a control system may handle tasks like connecting and disconnecting the microgrid to a local macrogrid as well as providing data on production and consumption
  • Distribution infrastructure – Every microgrid relies on a distribution infrastructure that is responsible for transferring power directly from its storage systems to local power lines and transformers so it can be used. 


BENEFITS OF MICROGRIDS


Microgrids can easily be configured to prioritize renewable energy sources over non-renewable sources. This means that even if a microgrid is set up to generate power using a combination of renewable and non-renewable sources, the energy storage systems and control methods can work to utilize renewable energy first. This, in turn, can reduce the need for non-renewable energy sources while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental damage.


By creating, storing, and distributing their own energy, microgrids can play a central role in reducing pressure on primary macrogrids nationwide and globally. This may be especially true during times of crisis, such as when a severe weather event causes a major power outage or disruption within a local macrogrid. 


When this happens, microgrids can be relied upon to reduce pressure on primary grids while providing a reliable supply of power for the most critical needs. This particular benefit of microgrids can be experienced anywhere but is perhaps most notable in areas that are at a higher risk of natural disasters or remote areas with limited access to energy from macrogrids. 


Finally, because they allow for better management of local energy resources, microgrids can make a considerable difference in overall efficiency by helping to balance power supply and demand. In addition, microgridscan be configured to allow adjustments to energy usage based on specific price signals, which could lower energy costs in some areas.​ 

All of this combined with the simple fact that microgrids are the more sustainable energy option, and it’s evident why more of these solutions continue to be installed across the country. 



FUTURE OF MICROGRIDS


Any new technology will face challenges when being set up and implemented on a large scale. https://www.utilitydive.com/news/oregon-legislature-passes-first-in-nation-microgrid-framework/752932/

One of the biggest obstacles in the integration of microgrids into our existing energy system, for example, is the fact that they are highly customised systems with very specific variables for each project. With so many different considerations to keep in mind (including various energy sources, site locations, and other needs), the process of designing and constructing a microgrid can be a large undertaking with no shortage of red tape along the way. 


Meanwhile, costs associated with the design and installation of a microgrid can be lofty — which can make getting approval for these projects challenging in various areas. The good news, however, is that costs should decrease over time as technology improves and microgrid integration becomes more widespread. 


The recent integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems into new and existing microgrid configurations. Using AI and machine learning, it is possible to automate some tasks related to power generation and distribution with a focus on efficiency and cost savings. This, in turn, can make microgrids more cost-effective and reliable. Recent years have also shown compelling advancements in microgrid control systems. Many analyists believe the emergence of intelligent energy management systems (EMS) and advanced energy storage systems (ESS) to “optimise the utilization and effectiveness of ESS in microgrids” and “continuously monitor and forecast energy demand and generation […] to achieve optimal operational performance.” Microgrids are the last piece of the puzzle to facilitate the rapid transition from fossil fuels to sustainable and renewable fuels. And, just as municipal planners require permits and detailed plans to provide water and sewer to new developments, the same will be required, the development will be requird to permit and construct a Microgrid to provide and store enough electricity for the development.


DERS (Distributed Energy Resources) are small-scale power systems (like rooftop solar, batteries, or small wind turbines) located near where energy is used, either behind a customer's meter or connected directly to the local grid, providing benefits like lower bills, backup power, and reduced strain on the main grid by generating or storing energy locally, often using renewables. Solar DC Power owner, Gerald DeVito has decades of site design experience and will partner to permit and construct Microgrids in strategic locations. Microgrids will reduce greenhouse gases and alleviate the burden of macrogrid electricity demand, facilitating the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources and preserving our future.


Xendee's research-based software currently supports 25 different technologies, including solar PV, batteries, generators, and charging stations, as well as advanced technologies like hydrogen electrolysis, non-combustible propane hydrides, hydrokinetic generators, geothermal assets, and even small modular reactors. Xendee also offers modeling services to our customers to augment their team when creating designs that utilize technologies outside of their core use cases. Visit Xendee's website for demos of their Microgrid products. https://xendee.com/upgrade-to-xendee?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=abm-conversions-general-terms&utm_content=&utm_term=microgrid&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23137755275&gbraid=0AAAAA-KkYZnKzSuLOxwQvFgDwkC6sgl7S&gclid=Cj0KCQiAgP_JBhD-ARIsANpEMxwTrPnW-wtrARBX_nlvCaDZKRJlq4sFCkFvAJpaZ4x2C5po-nQ-ZFwaAuZSEALw_wcB