Microgrid

A microgrid is a local self-sufficient energy system that can disconnect from the traditional grid and operate autonomously. Microgrids are powered by one or more types of distributed energy (solar panels, wind turbines, combined heat and power, generators). Any small-scale, localized power station with its own generation and storage resources and definable boundaries can be considered a microgrid. If the microgrid can be integrated with the area's main power grid, it is often referred to as a hybrid microgrid. Typical locations utilizing microgrids include college campuses, hospital complexes, business centers, neighborhoods, and military facilities.

The electrical grid connects homes, businesses, and other buildings to central power sources, allowing them to use appliances, heating/cooling systems, and electronics. The interconnectedness of the electrical grid means a large number of people can be affected during repairs. A microgrid allows facilities to operate on their own using local energy generation. This is especially useful during times of crisis, such as storms and power outages.

Often Microgrids are used to provide backup power or supplement the main power grid during periods of heavy demand. Buildings equipped with their own electric generation capabilities, such as solar panels and contingency generators, can also generate revenue during downtime. With smart grid deployments, excess energy can be sold back to local microgrids to create revenue and provide resilience and capacity to local electrical grids.

Microgrids are made up of many components in order to generate electricity and provide an equal electric load. The following are the primary microgrid components:

• Electricity generation resources—typically solar arrays, wind turbines, diesel and/or natural gas generators, or fuel cells that run on natural gas, hydrogen, or another energy source.
• Energy storage—microgrids often utilize energy storage. This allows electricity to be used at a time after it was generated, especially useful for intermittent sources such as solar or wind.
• Control system—typically includes energy management software, multiple controllers and sensors distributed across the microgrid, and a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system to collect data and distribute instructions.

Microgrids require many other critical components to connect consumers to the grid. These include electrical cables, circuit breakers, transformers, inverters, and more. Many microgrids also incorporate load management systems to manage electricity demand.

Diagram showing the components of a microgrid.

Microgrids have applications for a variety of location and facility requirements:

• Commercial
• Remote
• Military
• Campus
• Datacenter
• Community
• Industrial
• Residential
• Critical services
• Utility

Major players shaping the future of the microgrid industry include the following:

• Alencon Systems
• Ameresco
• Concord Engineering
• Eaton
• Generac
• Mesa Solutions
• NRG Energy
• PowerSecure
• PXiSE Energy Solutions
• S and C Electric
• Schneider Electric
• Siemens
• Veolia
• Xendee