Abstract
Microgrids could be utilized to improve the distribution network resiliency against weather-related network outages and increase the security of power supply of rural electricity consumers. Whereas underground cabling is expensive for the distribution system operator (DSO), an alternative microgrid investment could benefit the DSO and consumer, provided the necessary changes were made in the network regulation. A rural detached house customer microgrid is analysed in comparison to underground cabling, considering the uncertainties in the calculation parameters through a sensitivity analysis. Adequacy of the microgrid power supply during unexpected network outage for a reasonably long duration is assessed, as well as the economics of the feasible microgrid setup consisting of variable generation, controllable generation, and electric storage. The total costs and benefits for the DSO and consumer/prosumer are considered. A microgrid would likely be a more cost-efficient option overall, but not as-is for the consumer. The battery energy storage system (BESS)-related cost-sharing strategies are suggested in this paper in order to assess possible break-even investment solutions for the related parties. The sensitivities of the microgrid and cabling investments were considered in particular. Cost-sharing strategies under network regulatory framework would need to be developed further in order for both the consumer and DSO to benefit from the solution as a whole.
Highlights
The resiliency of networks against extreme weather conditions has been studied e.g., in [1].There are many methods and measures that can be taken to improve the resilience of an electric system such as underground cabling [2], emergency power systems, smart grid technologies, etc
As seen in the results presented in [11], an electric heated detached house with a battery storage and solar PV production only, would not be a reasonable solution alternative for a microgrid as a means to increase the reliability of supply
Studied as an alternative to underground cabling in order to increase the reliability of power supply
Summary
The resiliency of networks against extreme weather conditions has been studied e.g., in [1]. There are many methods and measures that can be taken to improve the resilience of an electric system such as underground cabling [2], emergency power systems, smart grid technologies, etc. As distributed generation and electricity storages are becoming more common and economic, microgrids are turning into an interesting alternative for improving the reliability and resilience of the electricity system against disturbances and blackouts, e.g., [3,4,5,6]. In Finland, extreme weather has caused many severe power outages in recent years and the government has set stricter limits for the outage duration. Most of the distribution system operators (DSO) have chosen underground cabling as the main solution
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