From laboratory Microgrid to real markets Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

This paper aims to identify and briefly address major gaps between nowadays technical (laboratory/pilot) Microgrid solutions and real-life (quasi-)commercial Microgrid market demands under a global setting. Firstly, both technical and commercial aspects of Microgrid story are illustrated in parallel; both sides' inherent motivations, scopes, business models etc. are compared. Then the paper deeper identifies and discusses existing gaps for application under three different categories: Major (internal) technical gaps: Grid-connected and off-grid dual mode operation support Meeting Microgrid network constraints / requirements Protection solution for new / upgraded Microgrids Major (external) regulatory gaps: Islanding vs. anti-island vs. low voltage ride through requirements Microgrid controllability definition at point of common coupling, Major market gaps: Acknowledgement of local consumption; Extra incentives and differentiation from DG market Consequently, general gap-narrowing principles and techniques are recommended for the above listed issues. Then the corresponding responsibilities and benefits of main stakeholders (producer, consumer, Microgrid operator etc.) in a Microgrid are proposed under this framework. Finally, a global Microgrid development roadmap is envisaged taking into account of regional differences as well as potential technology advancements in future. © 2011 IEEE.