Design methods investigation for residential microgrid infrastructure

In this study a residential community in Phoenix was selected as the basis to develop design methods for a residential microgrid. A microgrid model was built using computer based software. Photovoltaic (PV) modules, microturbines, and fuel cells were chosen as the distributed energy resources (DERs) for the model. The optimal residential microgrid system configuration was sorted out according to the least net present cost (NPC), and the least cost of energy (COE) of the designed microgrid system. The results indicate that the COE of the designed microgrid in island mode is expensive, although it is more environmentally friendly compared to the grid. The purpose of combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) is achieved by utilizing the exhaust heat from microturbines to provide daily hot water consumption while cooling demand is achieved through the connection of adsorption chillers to microturbines. Sensitivity analysis shows that natural gas price escalation and price reduction of DERs significantly impact COE and NPC. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.