Micro-Grid Problem & Solution

In the past 20 years Power System has witnessed many important changes and primarily being a paradigm shift from Centralised Generation (Thermal, & Hydel) to Decentralised Generation (Wind,Solar, Ocean, Biomass.Fuel Cells,Reciprocating Engines). Similarly with the development of technology and better diagnostics features getting incorporated within the Ecosystem of centralised and decentralised sources of energy its been much better now to Forecast and understand the Energy usage pattern and reduce power pilferage , losses and provide predictive maintenance. Nevertheless still a lot work still needs to be done but the opportunity and benefits are equally larger.

Interconnection of small and modular power generation system to low voltage distribution system can be called as MICROGRID.Microgrid can be operated and connected to the main power network in an efficient way with automation and setting us network communication.

The primary benefits of the Microgrids are : Energy Efficiency ,Minimisation of overall energy consumption ,Improvement of system reliability and contain energy losses. The most important factor is availability.In the present conventional power distribution network the losses are in the range of 12% -25%. In some of the developing countries the losses are as large as 40%.The losses are due of various reasons staring from poor grid infrastructure , power factor issues ,power theft and lack of coordination between Power distribution and Power Transmission firms. Many of the Industrial cluster are still power starved ( example being our locations being in North eastern States ,UP ,Bihar ,Orissa) whereas in some stages excess power are not been utilised. Distributed sources of energy will be quite useful in such situation as the point of generation and consumption would be quite near which would certainly reduce the losses and better voltage regulation.

On the challenges part the prime concern being Imbalance between load and Generation and managing specific network characteristics (Active and reactive power control). With the technology fast catching up decentralised sources of energy like BESS ( Battery Energy storage system) is proving to be one of the most promising option in the current situation considering ease of implementation. monitoring and flexibility. Similarly Fuel cells are also gaining popularity similar to BESS ( Battery Energy storage system), As the byproduct of Fuel cells in water so its one of the sustainable energy options. Microgrids with renewable energy sources can effectively contribute to increase the share of renewables and to reduce CHG Emissions.