9th March 2023
A microgrid is a collection of linked loads and decentralized energy sources that behaves as a single, controlled entity in relation to the grid. To operate in grid-connected or island mode, it may connect and disengage from the grid.
A power outage can be detected by the microgrid controller, which then automatically islands and brings online backup generating sources to restore power to load. Another example of how the microgrid controller maintains the system's real-time operation is by detecting the loss of grid electricity.
The market for microgrid control systems is anticipated to expand between 2023 and 2030 at a CAGR of 14.8%. The market for microgrid control systems will be driven by the renovation of the current grid networks.
Major players in microgrid control systems market are ABB Group, Siemens AG, Hitachi, Ltd, Eaton Corporation PLC, Princeton Power Systems, General Electric Corporation, Pareto Energy, Ltd, Honeywell International, Inc., Northern Power Systems Corporation, and, Exelon Corporation.
A grid network that is fully lined and built to deliver electricity in line with the needs of the relevant end user is referred to as being grid-connected or grid-tied. Among the numerous microgrid alternatives, the specific advantage of being a cost-effective solution has led the majority of homeowners and small-sized businesses to pick grid-connected microgrid systems to meet their individual power needs. Large-scale grid-tied microgrid networks are now common on college campuses, in the military, and in the defense sector, which has accelerated the market's adoption of control systems. Manufacturers have invested much in creating a private network of electricity in anticipation of the emergence of a connected world in case normal power sources fail. The development of grid-connected technology is accelerating in the Asia-Pacific region, with nations like Singapore and India investing in grid-connected installation for effective energy management.
As the majority of companies worldwide are estimated to contribute 23% of global carbon emissions, they are all attempting to optimize their energy use in order to lower carbon dioxide emissions and operating expenses. The market for micro-grid control systems will expand significantly as a result of these systems' ability to both significantly lower energy costs and boost industry productivity. More industries are utilizing additional storage in microgrid control systems to handle backup demands and to supply extra energy to systems for their effective and efficient operation in an effort to lower operating costs. Power outages are rather common in a place like India. The entire planet experiences a daily power dim-out of 1 lakh Megawatts. The micro-grid control system has been demonstrated to be more effective when compared to typical backup systems. Moreover, the capability of microgrids to operate autonomously for extended periods of time while still supplying enough electricity.
By activating breakers, automatically limiting generating output to prevent battery overcharge, or shedding non-essential loads if there is insufficient power, microgrid controllers also help to protect the system. Microgrids also play a crucial role in the market by responding to pricing signals, such as utility time-of-use rates or wholesale energy market circumstances, in order to maximize their return on investment.
Microgrids come in a broad range of configurations and designs, which leads to varied dynamics that necessitate specific modeling techniques. Cybersecurity must also be taken into consideration. Also being developed are industry standards for microgrid controllers, including by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The IEEE claims that regardless of topology, configuration, or jurisdiction, the standard's focus is on the functions that are shared by all microgrids above the component control level. Moreover, standardized testing practices are being developed. The capability and complexity of microgrid controllers are continuously being improved via research in microgrid technologies at institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, as well as through commercial sector R&D.
Expanded standard use cases that come with more microgrid installations will change the underlying assumptions about what a microgrid might and should provide. Storm readiness, extra renewable energy, bidirectional charging, cyber incursions, and economic optimization will all be standard use cases.