Sensitivity Assessment of Microgrid Investment Options to Guarantee Reliability of Power Supply in Rural Networks as an Alternative to Underground Cabling

Abstract

Microgrids could be utilized to improve the distribution network resiliency against weather-related network outages and increase the security of power supply of rural electricity consumers. Whereas underground cabling is expensive for the distribution system operator (DSO), an alternative microgrid investment could benefit the DSO and consumer, provided the necessary changes were made in the network regulation. A rural detached house customer microgrid is analysed in comparison to underground cabling, considering the uncertainties in the calculation parameters through a sensitivity analysis. Adequacy of the microgrid power supply during unexpected network outage for a reasonably long duration is assessed, as well as the economics of the feasible microgrid setup consisting of variable generation, controllable generation, and electric storage. The total costs and benefits for the DSO and consumer/prosumer are considered. A microgrid would likely be a more cost-efficient option overall, but not as-is for the consumer. The battery energy storage system (BESS)-related cost-sharing strategies are suggested in this paper in order to assess possible break-even investment solutions for the related parties. The sensitivities of the microgrid and cabling investments were considered in particular. Cost-sharing strategies under network regulatory framework would need to be developed further in order for both the consumer and DSO to benefit from the solution as a whole.

Effects of Producer and Transmission Reliability on the Sustainability Assessment of Power System Networks

“…The capacity of each of the transmission lines is given in Table 3. x [1] x [2] x [3] Producers x [4] x [5] x [6] x [7] x [8] x [9] x [10] x [11] x [12] x [13] x [14] x [15] x [16] x [17]…”

“…Power network sustainability-reliability is an important aspect of an energy generationtransmission system because the electricity demand of a group of customers needs to be assured at every instant of time with the lowest possible price and the least damage to the environment and society [1][2][3][4]. The reliability of a power network is usually dependent on the uncertainties associated with generation [5][6][7][8][9], transmission (and distribution) [10][11][12], load demand [13][14][15], and the presence of unexpected catastrophic events [16][17][18]. On the other hand, the sustainability of a power network depends on four pillars, i.e., economic, technical, environmental, and societal [19,20].…”

Methods and Concepts for Designing and Validating Smart Grid Systems

“…The intended goal was to offer flexibility bids for a real-time balancing market. Finally, in [19], the concept of microgrids was focused on again. The authors investigated how microgrids prevent weather-related network outages by creating more robust structures.…”

Game Theoretical Energy Management with Storage Capacity Optimization and Photo-Voltaic Cell Generated Power Forecasting in Micro Grid

“…Where, MG relieves the stress at reasonable degree, that is caused by increasing energy demands. MG is considered as one of the reliable networks for establishing connection between renewable resources and consumers along with managing storage units [13]. It can either be treated as controllable load or production system and can work in connection with grid.…”

“…where, x k m represents energy that is demanded by N from MG in time slot k. C bat m and C PVC m are explained in Equations (13) and (15). Equations (13), (15) and (23) show total load of MG.…”