Peer-to-Peer Microgrids for 100% Renewable Swarm Electrification: Scalable, Sustainable, Self-Serviceable, Safe, and Stable Design

Abstract

Swarm microgrids, a specialized type of DC microgrids with peer-to-peer energy exchange, are important enablers for emerging economies seeking climate-friendly and self-sufficient energy access. However, a systematic technology development methodology for swarm microgrids with an explicit long-term expansion perspective is not yet available. To address this gap, this article builds on the existing literature on swarm electrification and presents a structured methodology for the technology design and development of swarm microgrids. The resulting 'Quint-S' methodology of five hallmarks is distinguished by a holistic set of three-plus-two governing principles, defined herein. These principles cover the three design features scalability, sustainability, and self-serviceability, as well as the two technical foundations safety and stability. Scalability facilitates the growth from individual solar home systems to swarm microgrids, then to interconnected multi-microgrids, and eventually to interfacing with an AC main grid. Sustainability and self-serviceability ensure that the system uses 100% renewable energy and can be operated by users themselves. The latter characteristic is particularly advantageous in hard-to-reach sites when professional technicians are not available. The results are validated through laboratory experiments and real-world implementation in Bangladesh. The proposed methodology is of interest for a range of applications requiring ad hoc deployment of sustainable infrastructure.