Animated operational scenarios for microgrid systems using scenario visualization and simulation tools

Abstract

The modernization of energy infrastructure otherwise called Power Grid, with integration of renewable energy sources like Solar, Wind has emerged as a key focus area across the world. Over 1.2 billion people do not have access to electricity which incudes over 550 million people in Africa and 300 million in India. Further to this situation, the report from International Energy Agency forecasts power generation from renewable energy sources to nearly triple from year 2010 to 2035 reaching 31%. Microgrid or Distributed Energy Island System plays a vital role to overcome these challenges. Microgrid, which comprises of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) serving few community loads, are key enabler for renewable integration. These systems also play a significant role in rural electrification. These systems can be operated in semiautonomous manner or in autonomous/islanding mode. Some of the operational scenarios in these systems are related to modernization of power systems and hence explorative. This leaves a huge potential for Industry and academia collaborative approach. The purpose of this study is to analyze the operational scenarios both existing or new and how the visualization tools and ecosystem play a major role in the direction of collaboration and optimization that leads to benefit the community in the future.