The modern world is completely electric. Uninterrupted power supply is necessary for everything from heating systems and appliances in homes to large machines and equipment in factories. However, the robustness and dependability of traditional centralized power grids have been questioned over time. Power outages, blackouts, aging infrastructure and rising costs have forced businesses to look for better power generation and supply solutions. Solutions that ensure constant supply reduce cost pressures, use environmentally friendly energy sources, and provide energy freedom. It's no surprise that the world is turning to microgrids as the next best solution to power problems.
Until recently, microgrids were mostly used in large industrial operations, college campuses, and military bases. Recent technological advances and increasing awareness of the benefits of microgrids have accelerated the adoption rate. According to Navigant Research's Microgrid Deployment Tracker, the total microgrid market is expected to grow to 19888.8 MW of capacity in a market valued at $39.4 billion by 2028.
What exactly is a microgrid?
A microgrid is a network of local power supply that serves only the community, campus and industry that surrounds it. Microgrids are distinguished by their ability to operate independently when disconnected from the main grid.
This is determined by three main factors.
What differentiates it from traditional networks?
Conventional power grids and microgrids have several differences.
When defined, the traditional grid is a system of interconnected power generation and distribution components such as synchronous machines, transformers, transmission lines, and local substations. It is a highly centralized operation, with all power generated centrally and distributed over a wide area to millions of homes and industries. Simply put, it is a large-scale power supply network that relies heavily on electromechanical infrastructure and human expertise.
A microgrid, on the other hand, is a highly distributed grid of small-scale power supplies that can function with or without a central power supply. It's much smarter and can switch between connected and island modes as needed. Although the microgrid is not a new concept, the newest concept is using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
What are the main applications?
The centralized nature of the traditional power supply is its most serious weakness. Even if only one part of the network fails, several areas lose power. This has happened several times, especially during natural disasters. Because of the interconnection, several states often lose their power supply at the same time. Microgrids can help with this.
Microgrids can be installed on campus by organizations and communities looking to reduce their energy costs.
Microgrids can provide energy to organizations that need it 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Installing microgrids with solar and wind capabilities can be of great benefit to communities that wish to focus on sustainable energy production while reducing their carbon footprint.
Remote communities, campuses and rural areas that are difficult to connect to the central grid can instead install microgrids to serve their needs.
What weaknesses should businesses be aware of?
Although microgrids are an elegant solution to the world's current electricity problems, they are not without difficulties.
Since microgrids do not use their own energy source continuously, they require additional storage space and equipment.
Despite the development of smart microgrids, resync with the main grid is not always smooth.
Local utility companies and governments have yet to develop consistent microgrid laws and protocols.
Because microgrids serve local communities, they collect sensitive personal data that could be compromised by malicious parties. In addition, new cybersecurity regulatory laws have made microgrid adoption more difficult and costly.
Microgrids represent a paradigm shift, away from centralized distribution and towards a decentralized network of smaller supply stations. This empowers society to become more energy resilient and dynamic. In addition, low generation and distribution costs, off-loading capability, cleaner energy production and stable supply make microgrids a viable power supply option.
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