What is a microgrid?

loads and distributed energy resources within clearly defined electrical boundaries that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. A microgrid can connect and disconnect from the grid to enable it to operate in both grid-connected or island mode.”

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.

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 .

What is a PPA & how does a microgrid work?

The infrastructure in a PPA is owned by a third party and leased to customers to provide electricity and related services to end customers. In the case of microgrids, improved security, reliability, and sustainability can be marketed along with economic benefits like energy cost savings.

What factors drive microgrid development and deployment?

The factors driving microgrid development and deployment in locations with existing electrical grid infrastructure fall into three broad categories: Energy Security, Economic Benefits, and Clean Energy Integration, as described in Table 2, below. Table 2. Drivers of microgrid development and deployment.

How does a microgrid control frequency and voltage?

Control of frequency and voltage – so-called primary and secondary control – can be achieved either under the guidance of a microgrid central controller (MGCC) that sends explicit commands to the distributed energy resources or in a decentralized manner, like CERTS, in which each resource responds to local conditions.