Microgrids

Abstract

For years local power generation has been the standard form of delivering power to islands, remote communities or industrial sites. However, several factors, including power supply reliability, environmental concerns and economic constraints, are forcing energy service providers and end customers to take another look at self-powered, grid-independent alternatives, such as microgrids. Microgrids can now incorporate renewable power, reduce costs and enhance reliability. Today they can also be used as black start power or to bolster the grid during periods of heavy demand. As a result, microgrids are increasingly being adopted. Significant cost reductions of renewable distributed generation such as solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind, along with the development of efficient energy storage technologies and the availability of affordable wide-area communication infrastructure, have helped make microgrids more feasible. ABB continues to develop technologies that are redefining the electricity supply chain.