Grant: Collaborative Research and Development Grants

A microgrid is an energy system consisting of controllable distributed generators (DGs) and renewable resources, storage devices, and loads capable of operating in parallel with, or independently from, the main power grid. A recent challenge for the electric power system involves integration of microgrids at high penetration level. Topology development of a scalable microgrid, as well as its coordination and control to form a stable, reliable, efficient, flexible, and resilient energy system are what this project seeks to address. In this project smart microgrids are designed to extract power from renewable resources and provide it to loads in both grid-connected and standalone modes of operations. In order to operate in the absence of main power grid, microgrids typically require energy storage systems, and are usually custom designed with a high level of complexity. This project is focused on the design of novel smart topologies such that the microgrid becomes a modular and plug-and-play system facilitating a gradual expansion of the system proportional to the need and affordability. Another important objective is to design a microgrid with a minimum dependency on the technical staff to construct, expand, maintain, and protection system against failures and harsh environment. Such modular renewable microgrids are specifically beneficial to people with limited budgets or facilities such as remote communities and first nations. Unlike existing renewable DG systems, the use of this technology in large scale residential applications would also contribute to the support of the grid. This is achieved by helping balance the grid through frequency regulation, peak time demand response, reactive power compensation, and harmonic and sag/swell compensation. Furthermore, this technology, when designed at different power levels, can be employed by suburban areas with limited utility connection time, equipment stations, and any mobile units.