Will grid-tied microgrid customers stay connected if the grid fails?

Although grid-tied microgrid customers will likely stay connected to the grid for the foreseeable future, only islanding in the case of utility grid failure, self-consumption of microgrid generated energy could erode the revenue base that has traditionally paid for utility infrastructure investments.

What technical challenges did the microgrids project face?

Similar technical challenges were explored by the European Union MICROGRIDS project such as energy management, safe islanding and re-connection practices, protection equipment, control strategies under islanded and connected scenarios, and communications protocols .

Is market restructuring a threat to a microgrid?

Market restructuring, like that proposed in New York's “Reforming the Energy Vision (REV)” effort, will be required to move from a situation where microgrids are viewed as a threat to one in which distributed energy resource services are valued by the utility grid and fairly compensated .

Are microgrids a potential for a modernized electric infrastructure?

1. Introduction Electricity distribution networks globally are undergoing a transformation, driven by the emergence of new distributed energy resources (DERs), including microgrids (MGs). The MG is a promising potential for a modernized electric infrastructure , .

Where can electrical utilities test microgrid concepts?

Electrical utilities have begun testing microgrid concepts in laboratory-type settings. One example is Duke Energy, which maintains two test microgrid facilities: one in Gaston County, North Carolina , and one in Charlotte, North Carolina .

Are microgrids a viable business model?

The ownership and business models of microgrids are still evolving. Microgrids are now emerging from lab benches and pilot demonstration sites into commercial markets, driven by technological improvements, falling costs, a proven track record, and growing recognition of their benefits.