Distributed power supply and energy storage in microgrids

What is a microgrid power system?

In power distribution systems, a cluster of demand-side loads and distributed energy resources can be connected and disconnected from the main grid to operate in grid-connected or islanded mode. These small-scale power systems are named as microgrids.

What are energy storage systems in microgrids?

In high renewable penetrated microgrids, energy storage systems (ESSs) play key roles for various functionalities. In this chapter, the control and application of energy storage systems in the microgrids system are reviewed and introduced. First, the categories of...

Which features are preferred when deploying energy storage systems in microgrids?

As discussed in the earlier sections, some features are preferred when deploying energy storage systems in microgrids. These include energy density, power density, lifespan, safety, commercial availability, and financial/ technical feasibility. Lead-acid batteries have lower energy and power densities than other electrochemical devices.

How can a microgrid ensure continuous electricity?

Two ways to ensure continuous electricity regardless of the weather or an unforeseen event are by using distributed energy resources (DER) and microgrids. DER produce and supply electricity on a small scale and are spread out over a wide area. Rooftop solar panels, backup batteries, and emergency diesel generators are examples of DER.

Are electrochemical technologies suitable for Microgrid storage?

Concerning the storage needs of microgrids, electrochemical technologies seem more adapted to this kind of application. They are competitive and available in the market, as well as having an acceptable degree of cost-effectiveness, good power, and energy densities, and maturity.

Does a microgrid use more resources than a PV system?

It is also shown that the resources use is increased in the case of the mixed power system, as a result of the expenditure to build the PV system. A typical and modern microgrid uses two or more sources by which electricity is generated, at least one of which is renewable.