Using a Micro-grid to solve the problem of power outages and shortages in southern Algeria during the summer

Abstract

Technological advancements have transformed the energy sector in the last few years, the industry is increasingly embracing micro-grids as a viable tool for integrating distributed generations, enhancing power quality, and guaranteeing energy supply to critical loads. Ideally, the micro-grid concept provides a viable solution to the energy sector, particularly with enormous microgeneration deployment. It addresses challenges attributed to geographically dispersed energy resources, including negative impacts on energy system operations and security. The specific climatic conditions of the desert, particularly the high temperatures in summer, greatly influence the consumption pattern in the isolated grids of southern Algeria. These extreme temperatures sometimes surpass 50 degrees, resulting in increased air conditioning systems. When operated at total capacity, especially during hot seasons, these systems significantly increase pick demands and weaken the production system enormously. Southern Algeria is considered one of the hottest places globally, which justifies its enormous power consumption due to the widespread use of cooling systems. Such consumption often leads to power cuts and shortages; thus, the need to pursue Micro-grid Integrated Hybrid System. This system integrates multiple electrical components connected through a robust distribution system. Such a hybrid renewable energy system is viable in this region because of its characteristic high solar radiation and strong winds throughout the year. Thus, this study utilized such energy resources to address Algeria's energy shortages and power cuts using the MATLAB/Simulink program.