Using microgrids featuring PV panels and batteries connected to the grid to improve the reliability of a low-voltage feeder in Kinshasa

Abstract

This article presents an approach for the design of an electricity grid using microgrid (MG) with photovoltaic panels and batteries connected to the low voltage network. The objective is to quantify the potential benefits of the microgrid in terms of reliability and ensure the availability of electrical energy to reduce consumer stress. The cabin is unreliable, fault and/or load shedding is frequent and untimely with peaks of the network. Based on the assumptions, the design of the microgrid is based on reliability criteria such as the probability of pressure loss, the cost of energy and economic efficiency. The parameters of the model are such as the solar irradiation, the efficiency of the PV module, the temperature, the energy needs of the consumer. In the last pages, the simulations are carried out with Matlab and PVSyst software and the cost of the energy not supplied is calculated at 2.13€/kWh. The economic efficiency of the microgrid is evaluated using the ratio of energy lost during grid failure/load shedding to microgrid cost at 46%. The reliability considering the support microgrids is evaluated at 53%.