Around the world, 789 million people lack access to electricity, and millions more do not have a consistent source of energy. Here at Niccolo, we know that rising fuel costs make this issue worse by pushing millions of people into energy poverty; Many households must choose between heating and eating.
Alongside this, people’s concerns about power’s dependability and resilience are growing. What can we do if the power grid goes dark due to a scheduled or unforeseen outage?
We think that microgrids are the answer to this issue, working in tandem with renewable and solar energy.
What is a microgrid energy system and how does it work?
A microgrid generator is a small-scale energy storage system that has control capabilities. As a result, it can run independently and can be disconnected from the main grid.
The microgrid system itself is a collection of interconnected loads and dispersed energy sources that operates as a single, controllable entity in relation to the grid and is contained within well defined electrical boundaries. In order to operate in both grid-connected and island mode, a microgrid can connect to and disengage from the grid without losing access to its power supply, making it’s reliability greater than most other local energy sources.
A microgrid needs a generation source to be able to supply its users’ needs for electricity. Although microgrids are a more recent idea, their electricity has traditionally come from “behind the metre” fossil fuel generators, such as a gas-powered management system as a power source. However, given the environmental advantages of moving from fossil fuel generation to solar power as well as the declining cost of solar, many of the microgrids being developed today produce electricity using a combination of solar panels and battery storage. Microgrids are perfect when it comes to taking advantage of clean energy resources, the department of energy confirmed.
One or more types of distributed energy (solar panels, wind turbines, combined heat and power plants, and generators) are used in microgrids to generate power. In addition, a lot of more recent microgrids have energy storage, usually in the form of batteries, and several now have stations for charging electric cars.
What are the benefits of microgrid energy?
There are numerous advantages of microgrids, including:
- The ability to provide reliable, affordable, and clean energy and enhance the area electric grid’s performance and stability
- Introducing new and essential facilities that improve dependability and resilience
- An ability to streamline the grid and lower peak loads, reducing congestion
- Allow extremely effective CHP to cut down on fuel consumption, line losses, and carbon emissions.
- Microgrids can include CHP, renewable energy, thermal and electric storage, and sophisticated building controls – making for interconnected loads and distributed energy resources
- Provides energy, capacity, and ancillary services for the grid.
- Utilises local employment and energy sources for power generation
- Offers risk diversification as opposed to risk concentrationA microgrid allows local management of variable renewable generation, notably on-site solar, using its electric and thermal storage capabilities, and a regional power grid that contains both large central plants and distributed microgrids can be constructed with less installed generation, a lower total capital cost, a greater capacity factor across the board, and higher reliability when it is properly designed.
How we use microgrids today
Microgrid projects can utilise electronics, appliances, heating/cooling systems, and other household systems because the grid connects your property, companies, and other facilities to centralised power sources, meaning that it is a good choice whether you are a business owner or simply looking for new energy solutions at home.
Microgrids can run while linked to the main grid, but crucially, it can disconnect and run independently using local energy production during emergencies like storms or power outages or for other reasons. Off-grid microgrids can continue to provide a number of services to meet supply and demand in that area. It’s off-grid performance includes:
- Islanding: A microgrid will continue to provide power to critical loads even if the main grid goes down. This is called “islanding.” The microgrid’s generators, renewable energy sources, and energy storage can all work together to provide reliable power to the local community.
- Load Shedding: In the event of a power outage or other emergency, a microgrid prioritizes which loads to power and which to shed. This is called “load shedding.” The microgrid will prioritize essential loads such as hospitals, water treatment plants, and emergency services, while temporarily shedding less critical loads such as non-essential lighting and appliances.
- Energy storage: A microgrid can incorporate energy storage systems to store excess energy generated by the microgrid’s renewable energy sources or generators. This stored energy can be used to provide power during periods of low generation or during peak demand periods.
- Utilize backup generators: In the event that the microgrid’s renewable energy sources are unable to generate enough power to meet demand, the microgrid is used as a backup generator to provide additional power.
Overall, a microgrid is able to help improve the resiliency and reliability of the local electrical system by providing an alternative source of power during emergencies or power outages.
Who is eligible for a microgrid?
Microgrids are complex electrical systems that require specialized knowledge and expertise to design, install, and maintain. Therefore, it is important to work with a qualified and experienced microgrid installer or system integrator to ensure that your microgrid is designed and installed properly.
In the UK, there are a number of companies that specialize in microgrid installation, including engineering and construction firms, renewable energy developers, and electrical contractors. These companies typically have experience in designing and installing complex electrical systems and can provide a turnkey solution that includes design, installation, and ongoing maintenance.
The adoption of microgrids in the UK is growing, but it is not yet as common as in other countries such as the US and Australia. However, there are a number of initiatives and programs aimed at promoting the development of microgrids in the UK, particularly in rural and remote areas. The UK government has set a target for all homes and businesses to have access to smart energy systems, including microgrids, by 2030. This target is expected to drive the adoption of microgrids in the coming years, particularly in areas where grid infrastructure is unreliable or expensive to maintain.
How can my business switch to using a microgrid energy storage system?
Switching to a microgrid for energy requires a significant investment in infrastructure and technology, but it can offer many benefits for businesses, including greater energy independence, cost savings, and improved resiliency in the face of power outages or disruptions. Here are some steps you can take to switch to a microgrid:
- Conduct a feasibility study: Before investing in a microgrid, it’s important to determine whether it is a viable option for your business. A feasibility study can help assess your energy needs, potential energy sources, and the costs and benefits of switching to a microgrid.
- Determine your energy needs: Assess your business’s energy usage, including peak and off-peak demand, to determine the size of the microgrid you will need. Consider the energy sources available in your area, such as solar or wind power.
- Identify financing options: Switching to a microgrid requires a significant investment, so it’s important to identify financing options that can help you cover the costs. This may include grants, loans, or other incentives available from government agencies or other organizations.
- Choose a microgrid design: Work with a microgrid specialist to design a system that meets your energy needs and integrates with your existing infrastructure. This may include components such as renewable energy sources, energy storage, and backup generators.
- Install and test the microgrid: Once the microgrid is designed, it can be installed and tested. This process may take several months and involve working with contractors and other specialists.
- Monitor and maintain the microgrid: After the microgrid is installed, it’s important to monitor its performance and conduct regular maintenance to ensure that it operates efficiently and reliably.
Switching to a microgrid can be a complex process, but it can offer many benefits for businesses. Working with a microgrid specialist can help ensure that you design and install a system that meets your energy needs and provides a reliable source of power for your business.