Cooperative microgrid networks for remote and rural areas

Abstract

Microgrids (MGs) with renewable energy resources have shown competitive operational advantages for smart grid integration. In the wake of recent blackout events, more interest has been directed on the deployment of MGs in rural and remote areas where main grid connectivity may not be possible. This work focuses on the development of an autonomous distributed framework for cooperation amongst a set of MGs without support from a traditional centralized grid. This work proposes a distributed algorithm that supports autonomous operation, enhances cost efficiency, and increases reliability of the overall system. This paper uses a complete information game theoretic approach via coalition formation formulation. The effects of rate policies on the dynamics of cooperation are also investigated in this work. The proposed distributed algorithm empowers the MGs to coordinate and match significant part of energy demand and supply with cooperating MGs. Results of this work show cooperation gains for the microgrid network after implementing the proposed algorithm.