Making microgrids work

Distributed energy resources (DER), such as distributed generation (DG) and distributed storage (DS), which are sources of energy located near local loads, should be properly operated in the electrical distribution system to make it able to offer several advantages, including improved reliability. Microgrids, systems that have at least one distributed energy resources and associated loads, can be made to work properly by opening an upstream switch and making distributed energy resource (DER) able to carry the load on islanded section. This involves maintenance of suitable voltage and frequency levels for all islanded loads. Power flow analysis of island scenarios should be carried out for ensuring that proper voltage regulation is maintained and to prove that the DER can handle inrush during 'starting' of the island. Microgrids can also benefit local utilities by offering dispatchable load to be used during peak power conditions.