Planning renewable energy introduction for a microgrid without battery storage

Abstract

Microgrids with renewable generation can improve environmental impact on remote islands. This paper presents a case study of a plan for a microgrid that addresses the inconsistency of renewable energy with governor control and the inertial force of a diesel generator. This paper aims to design of a microgrid without a battery storage system. The case study was modeled to determine the maximum amount of renewable generation that can be introduced while maintaining stable frequency and voltage within the transmission grid. Data from Japan’s Teuri and Yagishiri islands were used. The findings of our study revealed that wind and photovoltaic power can account for about 20% of the generation in such a microgrid while maintaining frequency stability. Adjustment of the moment of inertia of diesel generators effectively compensates for the fluctuating output of renewable sources at small remote islands. The cost of such a microgrid could be recovered within 16–17 years.