Microgrid Technology Case Report

Are batteries a problem for microgrid development?

Another challenge for microgrid development is the issue of energy storage. While battery storage is becoming more cost-effective and reliable, it still represents a significant upfront cost for many microgrid projects [ 31 ]. In addition, using batteries can create environmental concerns.

Is market restructuring a threat to a microgrid?

Market restructuring, like that proposed in New York's “Reforming the Energy Vision (REV)” effort, will be required to move from a situation where microgrids are viewed as a threat to one in which distributed energy resource services are valued by the utility grid and fairly compensated .

Should microgrids be implemented?

Another important consideration for the implementation of microgrids is the issue of social equity. Access to reliable and affordable energy is critical in many communities. Microgrids can solve this problem by providing a more localized and community-based approach to energy access.

What are the trends in microgrid tools development?

In general, U.S. microgrid tools development has demonstrated some trends. First, microgrid simulation has evolved from traditional power system-based simulation and optimization to comprehensive power and thermal energy integration modeling.

How are utility microgrid technologies selected?

Participants of utility microgrid development in the field reflected that practical aspects of microgrid technologies, i.e., installation, operation, and maintenance were their main criteria of technology selection. They preferred microgrid worker-friendly technologies.

What is Microgrid technology sizing?

MDT gives users the capability to search a variety of microgrid technology configurations to provide alternative design decisions on microgrid system costs, performance, and reliability. The model has two major capabilities. The microgrid sizing capability is a mixed-integer linear programming optimization to determine microgrid technology sizing.