Abstract
The security of national energy systems as well as the transition to a low-carbon future are two hot topics of discussion in the international political arena. Research on the stability of centralized energy systems is currently focused on distributed generation. Developing a scalable microgrid model enabling its massive adoption is one of the safest and feasible ways to solve such problem. The paper aims to fill an existing gap regarding the operation model of microgrids that is a barrier for the large-scale integration of those in the conventional grid network. In the proposed approach the authors identified key processes to be considered when operating microgrids, in the conditions shown through an experimental (simulation) campaign. A three-phase research was performed: (1) systematic literature review to explore the management models of a stand-alone microgrid design and management; (2) a household experiment; and (3) a computer simulation of energy balance for a selected household. We identified eight key processes constituting a scalable microgrid: five core processes, two supporting processes, and one management process. Subsequently, we developed a map of these processes obtaining a microgrid process model for massive adoption. The model of processes can be considered as a repeatable pattern of conduct in the creation and maintenance of microgrids, which their future owners can follow. To support our literature findings, we performed an experiment and a computer simulation of three sub-processes of the (re)design of the infrastructure process: (1) wind turbine selection, (2) photovoltaic power plant selection, and (3) energy-storage selection. Results confirm conditional stability of the analyzed microgrid and the need for cyclical simulation exercises until unconditional stability is achieved. In terms of sustainability, to keep the microgrid permanently in a positive energy balance will require the implementation of all key processes.
Highlights
Innovative advances in renewable-energy sources (RES) and the accompanying technologies have enabled discussion on solutions alternative to the traditional model of energy market organization
Developing technological and organizational infrastructure to minimize the impact of new microgrid elements on the electric power grid to which they are connected; in this process, we analyze reports from owners/users and potential owners/users of the microgrid regarding changes in infrastructure and monitor the micro- and macro-environment to analyze technological and organizational trends that could have an impact in the future
Maintaining grid operation to ensure that microsources and loads function according to the operational schedules; in this process, we maintain continuous and uninterrupted operation of the microgrid infrastructure through periodic assessments of the technical condition and visual inspections; Developing human competencies—continuous education in microgrid infrastructure operation, its control and cooperation with external entities; in this process, we define the criteria for the selection of microgrid employees, and in the case of only one owner, we develop and implement a training program dedicated to handling microgrid processes; and Management process: 8
Summary
Innovative advances in renewable-energy sources (RES) and the accompanying technologies have enabled discussion on solutions alternative to the traditional model of energy market organization. The integration of DRES into power generation systems has been an active field of research for over many years [5,6,7]. One example of this integration are microgrids: small power grids with distributed generation, including energy-storage devices [8,9,10]. Households absorb digital technologies of industry 4.0 [12,13], become more autonomous and smart It is a fertile ground for massive microgrid adoption and transformation of households from energy users to energy producers and surplus distributors, which calls for relevant business models [3] and a scalable microgrid model
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