An Evaluation of Microgrid Structures and their Relative Merits

This presentation, from the Power Electronics Enabled Transmission and Distribution Systems conference stream, is an evaluation of microgrid structures and their relative merits. The term ‘Microgrid' is usually used to refer to a bundling of loads, micro-generation and energy storage at the lowest voltage levels, to form a unit with improved behaviour, as seen from higher voltage levels. It has been suggested that this allows more low-carbon energy generation to be embedded into the power system, since the Microgrid structure can mitigate some of the disadvantages normally associated with small-scale embedded generation. The use of energy storage, micro-generation and intelligent control may also result in improved power quality at the consumer terminals and defer investment in plant. The presentation covers Microgrid topology layouts, structures and control. It discusses the relative merits of the various options for both transient and steady-state performance in terms of controllability and economics.