Microgrids

Concept, Purpose, and Applications

Eng. Lidula Nilakshi W.A., PhD

Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering
University of Moatuwa

Distributed Generation, Their

Impact and Microgrid as a
Solution
Lecture 2

oi Electrical Engineering, Mootuw•

 Distributed Generation Definition
• Distributed generation is a subset of
Distributed Energy Resources.
• Distributed energy resource (DER): A
source of electric power that is not directly
connected to a bulk power system. DER includes both generators and energy storage
technologies capable of exporting active power to an EPS. An interconnection system or
a supplemental DER device that is
necessary for compliance with this standard is part of
a DER

Bl 83 Small-scale
generators (solar,
wind, diesel, etc)
connected to MV
Substation or LV networks

source-ILLE for reowc—

Eng. Lidula N"akshi WA. PhD and JR.
Department o' Electrical Engineering, Univemity of
Moatuwa

Connection of Distributed Generation

G G G G G G G
Extra hlgn voltage
transmjsslon network

High WItage
transmtsson netv,orx

Large
Medium voltage scae
distnbuuonnetwork

LOW voltage MediumSize

distrtbutjon network
OG OG OG

Source.N, Jenkin J,B- Eka_ru-akc

and G.
Eng. Lidula Nilakshi W-A.. PhD Engineering
and : of
Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering. Univer%itvOf Moatuwa
 9/ co/ z

Distributed Generation Technologies

Technology Features Typical Lifetime Levelized Advantages Disadvantages
Plant
Capacity
Range
Rooftop Converts 25-30 so.07- Reduces carbon footprint Dependence on weather
Solar sunlightinto years $0.23/kWh • Low maintenance High upfront cost
electricity Reduces electricity bills Limited by roof space
Solar Parks Converts 25-30 $0.04. Reduces carbon footprint Dependence on weather
sunlightinto 100 MW years SO.10/kWh • Low maintenance Land use
electrici Economies of scale • Transmission constraints
Wind Converts wind 10 kW - 20-25 $0.03. Reduces carbon footprint Dependence on wind
energy into years $0.08/kWh • Low operating cost Land use
electricit Lon lifetime Noise pollution
Microand Converts 100 w. 50-100 $0.05. Reliable Dependence on water flow
Mini Hydro water flow years $0.14/kWh • Long lifetime limited by location
into electricit Low o eratin cost

tng Uduin PhD

Ptotessor. Oop•rlmont of Enginee'ing. University of Moatuws

Distributed Generation Technologies

Technology Features al Lifetim Levellzed Advantages Disadvantages
Plant

Range
Biomass Converts 100 kW- 20-30 $0.06 Renewable fuel source Dependence on fuel availability
organic 10 MW years SO.16/kWh • Reduces waste High maintenance
matter into
electricity
Fuel cells Converts 1 kW-5 10-20 $0.11- High efficiency Dependence on fuel availability
hydrogenor MW years SO.30/kWh • Low emissions High cost
natural gas • Limited by technology
into electricity
Micro Converts fuel 30 kW- 10-20 $0.08- Compact Dependence on fuel availability
Turbines into electricity 500 kW years $0.15/kWh • High efficiency Emissions
High maintenance
Diesel Converts fuel 10 kW-5 10-20 $0.14- Quick start-up • Emissions
Engines into electricity MW years $0.25/kWh• High efficiency at part loads Dependence on fuel availability
High operating cost

WX. PhD
Profeoor, of fle•etrical Engineering. ot Moatuwa
Levelized Cost of Energy Components—High End —2023 data

W A. PhD Lazard (2023). Lnzard••Leve6zod Cost Of Energy Analysis • Vemon 15 0. Retrieved from
of Electrical Engineering. Univer%itvo'

Change in Global Weighted Levelized Cost of

Electricity by Technology, 2020-2021
SOIarPhotc•atwc Ottshorewtrd orc-ore concentraro p:wer

-13% -13%

Eng. PhD IRENA (2022). Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2021. htemauonal Renewobh Energy
Engineerin<, o/ Moatuwa Agency, Abu Dhabi
P'ofe•.sor, of
 Renewable Net Capacity
Additions

Source: InternationalEnergy Agency, Energy Mar\etUpdate:Outmk for

2022 and 2020. Publications. 2022

Eng. tidula Nilnkshi W.A., PhD

Professor, Department af Electrical Engineering. universi?y of Moatuw•

Distributed Generation Technologies

• Synchronous Generator Based Sources jxs

• Used in steam turbines, hydroelectric

plants, diesel generators, and thermal Vo/ragebehind impedance model of a sycJtronorcs generator
power conversion plants such as CHR
Tunne
• Both of the prime mover and synchronous Generabr Totalsurce
generators require controllers to operate Irvr,ne

the generator with desired voltage/speed, F SOH:

frequency, and synchronization controls.
• The frequency and speed control of MVA'
synchronous generator-based systems are AVR
performed by using speed-droop control or
fixed frequency operating methods. MVAricoso
• The synchronous generator should be I Speed set pant

equipped with an excitation system that is

comprised of a dc voltage source for
regulating the output voltage.
MW set
 Distributed Generation Technologies
SynchronousGenerator Based Sources Active and Reactive Power
• Asynchronous generator connected to an infinite bus.
• The real power, P, and the reactive power,Q, from the generator to the grid is
Paph = 3 —sin Q.Aph= cosb —

jlX,

• These equations lay the foundation of operation of grid-connected generators including power
electromc inverters. x s is the synchronous reactance of the machine.
• The induced emf, E, from the generator leads the grid voltage vector, Vt, by the load angle, 6, in the
example shown but this depends on the field current.
• From the phasor diagram the real (P) and reactive (Q) power equations above are determined.

Ena. W.A„ Pho Departmento/

Distributed Generation Technologies

Synchronous Generator Based Sources—Power Control

1.01
a"

1.0

0.99

Importing VA'S O E.xpomnq VAN

Output powor reactyvøpower

Conventional governor droop characteristic for generator governor Quadrature dmop characteristicfor generutor excitationcontrol
control

PhD 01
 Distributed Generation Technologies
• Small-scale hydro generation • Small-scale hydro schemes may use
• Those hydro schemes without significant induction or synchronous generators.
water storage capacity may experience large • Low head turbines tend to run more slowly
variations in available water flow. and therefore, either a gearbox or a multi-
pole generator is required.
• Favors the use of robust, squirrel-cage
• The power output of a hydro turbine is induction generatorsover wound rotor
given by the simple expression: synchronous machines for simple, small-scale
hydro systems
P = QH/tpg • Variable speed hydro-generator sets are used
to match the operating characteristic of the
where P = output power (W), Q = flow rate turbine to the variable flow rates
(m3/s), H = effective head (m), = overall experienced during different hydrological
efficiency, p = density of water (1000 kg/m 3) conditions.
and g = acceleration due to gravitv • This requires the use of power electronics to
interface the generator to the 50/60 Hz
network.

Distributed Generation Technologies

• Wind Power Plants • As the power developedis proportionalto the cube of
the wind speed,
• A wind turbine operates by extracting It is important to locate wind turbines in areas of high
kinetic energy from the wind passing meanannualwindspeed
through its rotor. • Often the areas of high wind speed will be away from
• The power developed by a wind turbine is habitation,and the associatedwell-developed
electrical distribution network, leading to a
given by
requirement for careful consideration of the
1
connection of wind turbines to relatively weak
electrical distribution networks

where Cp = power coefficient—a measure of

the effectiveness of the aerodynamic rotor, P
= power (W), V = wind velocity (m/s), A =
swept area of rotor (rn2) and p = density of air
(1.25 kg/m 3).

WA.
 Brain-teaser
• Explain why wind turbines have larger blades compared to smaller
blades used in hydro turbines

40

2010

. PhD of

Distributed Inductjon

Generation tor Transformer

Technologies
• Wind Turbine
Capacitor
Technologies (a) Fixed speed induction generator (b) Variable slip wind turbine

External resstor
pitch

TrarEformer

Wound rotor
inducOon

Capacity
'(C)Döübty fed'iffdüction generator wind turbine (d) Full power convener wind tühbine.
 Distributed Generation Technologies
• Solar Photovoltaic Generation 19b R,
• Direct conversion of sunlight to electricity
• A common equivalent circuit model of a
photovoltaic cell.
• The current source, Iph,models the electrons
promoted by the irradiance (photons) falling on
vpv + Rsipv
the cell. tpv — — e n s th
• These electrons can flow either through the p
diode as diode current, id, or, ignoring shunt
resistance, Rp,the electrons can flow through
the load connected to the terminals. r,
• The v-i characteristic of the PV cell is the same
as a diode but reflected around the x-axis and an
offset current, Iph,added to idthat represents
the photon generated current.
5 23
Eng. WA..
Department
0t Umversttv ot

Distributed Generation Technologies

• Solar Photovoltaic Generation

Schematic representation of a small PVinverter

for 'grid-connected' operation

Energy DC:DC DCAC Isolation Output

storage filter
module

WA.
Engineering, of Moatuw•
 Advantages of Distributed Generation
from a
• Reduced transmission and distribution losses: When electricity is generated
reach the
centralized power plant, it needs to be transmitted over long distances to
end-users, which results in transmission and distribution losses. Distributed
generation, on the other hand, generates electricity at the point of consumption,
thereby reducing the need for long-distance transmission and distribution, and
lowering the losses associated with these activities.
• Improved voltage regulation: Distributed generation systems can improve voltage
regulation by reducing voltage drops along the transmission and distribution lines. By
generating electricity closer to the point of consumption, voltage drops can be
minimized, resulting in a more regulated power supply.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions: Distributed generation systems can use a variety of
renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and biomass, to generate electricity,
which reduces the need for fossil fuel-based power generation. This helps to lower
greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major contributor to climate change.
Enc W.A„ PhD Professor,Departmentof Un.venit-vo' Moatuw•

Advantages of Distributed Generation

• Increased energy efficiency: Distributed generation systems can increase
energy efficiency by utilizing waste heat from generation for heating and
cooling, which would otherwise be wasted in centralized power generation.
This can improve the overall efficiencyof the power generation system and
reduce energy waste.
• Lower dependence on imported fuels: Distributed generation systems can
reduce the dependence on imported fuels, which can help to enhance energy
security and promote energy independence.
• Improved local economic development: Distributed generation systems can
stimulate local economic development through job creation and increased
investment in renewable energy technologies. This can create new business
opportunities and increase the resilience of local economies.

Eng. WA.. PhD Professor. Department o' Electrical Engineering, University of Moatuwa
 Negative Impacts
• Grid stability
of Distributed Generation
and Power
fluctuations Quality:
in voltage and DG can cause grid
frequency. This can lead stability issues and
to grid instability andaffect power quality due to
power outages, particularly
• Limited Capacity:
systems. This can DG systems have limited capacity compared
commercial users,make it difficult to
which may requiremeet the energy demand to centralized power generation
of large-scale industrial
• High capital costs: higher levels of power supply reliabilityand and
DG systems can
consistency.
installation of renewable require significant capital investment,
it difficult for individuals energy technologies such as solar panels the
and Wind turbines. This can make
and small businesses to invest
in these systems, limiting their ability to
• Inefficient Use of
systems due to their Resources: DG systems can be less
smaller scale and inability to achieve efficient than centralized power generation
efficient use of resources, which can increase the overall cost economies of scale. This can result in a less
of energy production and result in
• Regulatory and Policy Barriers:
difficult to integrate them into the DG systems can face regulatory and policy
barriers that make it
amount of DG that can be installed existing energy system. For example, regulations
in a given area or require DG mav limit the
systems to comply with complex and

Eng. tidula Nilakshi w,A.. PhD

Professor. Degattment Electrical Engineering, University of Mostuwa

Negative Impacts of Distributed Generation

• Potential for Environmental Impact: While DG can be a cleaner alternative
power generation systems, it can also have potential environmental impacts.toFor traditional
the production of renewable energy technologies can result in the use of rare earth example,
and other materials that have environmental impacts associated with their extraction metals
production. and
• Unequal Access: DG systems can be expensive to install and maintain, which can limit access
to those who can afford them. This can create inequalities in access to energy and limit thec
ability of low-income households to benefit from the technology.
• Limited Scalability: DG systems may not be scalable to meet the growing energy needs of a
community or region. This may require significant additional investments in intrastructure
and technology to meet future demand.
• Maintenance and Repair: DG systems require ongoing maintenance and repair to ensure
their efficient operation. This can be a significant challenge for individuals and small
businesses that may lack the expertise and resources to maintain their systems properly.
• Land Use: DG systems may require significant land use, particularly for solar and wind energy
installations. This can lead to conflicts over land use and limit the availability of land for other
purposes, such as agriculture or conservation.
Eng NilaVshi W_A,. Pho
Department of Electrical Engincefinc. Univer%tv of Moatuw:•
Negative Technical Impacts of Distributed Generation

• Voltage fluctuations: DGs can cause voltage fluctuations due to the variability
of their output, leading to equipment malfunction or failure.
• Harmonic distortion: DGs can cause harmonic distortion in the power grid.
• Unbalanced voltage and current: DGs can produce unbalanced voltage and
current, leading to equipment malfunction or failure.
• Islanding: DGs can create islands if they are not properly synchronized with
the rest of the power grid, causing problems for utility companies trying to
restore power to the affected area.
• Overloading: DGs can overload the distribution network if they supply more
power than the network can handle, causing equipment damage or failure.

Eng. NVIakshi PhD

Professor, Oegartment Electrical Engineering, University of Moatuwa

Negative Technical Impacts of Distributed Generation

• Over-voltage: DGs can cause over-voltage particularly under lightly loaded
conditions, damaging or affecting the performance of other electrical equipment.
• Interference with protective devices: DGs can interfere with protective devices,
causing them to trip unnecessarily or fail to operate when needed, leading to
equipment damage or failure.
• Formation of duck curve: Diurnal patterns of DG outputs (eg: solar PV) can lead to
a change in the demand curve seen by the utility to a duck curve with the increased
integration of such DGs.
• Reliability concerns: DGs may not be as reliable as centralized power generation
systems, leading to potential power outages or equipment failure.
• Safety concerns: DGs can pose safety risks to workers and the public if they are not
properly installed, operated or maintained.

Eng WT... PhD

Department af Electrical Engineering. University 01 Moatuwa
 Power Quality Issues Due to Increased
Integration of Rooftop Solar PV in Low
Voltage Distribution Networks
A Case Study

Cog. L'dula PhD

Of Univers•tv

Selected Distribution System - Kotte Area

A distribution feeder with high solar penetratbn
from the maximum demand
Transformer
presentMaximum 192 kVA / 352 customers
2SOkVATE role ID Demand on Transformer
Second* Conductortype ABC : 3*70 mm2+ 54 mm2
R -0.443 Q/km . X mH,'km
feeder
Feeder length
Maximumfeeder 70 kVA (67 kW+ 21 kVar)
3 10
Solar PV
1 Phase
Solar PV 11
• 12 am • 10•ma • 10
V,I Measuring
Point 20

Loads
13

Source:H, H. H_de Silva. D. K. J. S. Jayanuha and N. W. A. Lidula."PowerQuality Issues to High

Perrtrat.onof Solar PV in Low Voltage DistribuuonNetworks:A Case Snu.jy. ø 2019 14th
Conferetueon Im.justrial
and Inforrrutjon Syscc"b (ICUS).Katujy.Sri Lanka.2019. 395—400.

Eng, . PhD Protestor. Department o' ElectrLIOi Cn\tneerin8, Of

Voltage Variation Along the Feeder
2S0

240

2.10

220
10 12

250

— 2.10

220

Pole ID

Voltage variation along the Feeder (a) Scenario I (b) Scenario 2

Harmonic Distortion Along the Feeder

= 10

Pole ID

100% Pole ID

VTHD along the Feeder (a) Scenario I (b) Scenario 2

 Harmonic Distortion Along
the Feeder
10
30

20

War
JL.-I _
12 10 11 12
Pole ID
(a)
30

20

loadingLow XÅI S El El -n
10 12
100% Pole ID
irr»dianee Irradiance Irradiance (b)

ITDD along the Feeder (a) Scenario 1 (b) Scenario 2

L•duta W A . PhD Professor, O•epartnent of cf

Harmonic Distortion Along the Feeder

Case•case
0.6
C 0.4

Pole ID
(a)

Ine•r
100%

Z 0.6

0.4-
am-4 am "rm-4 pm 6 pm-10 pm
0.2
Iligbloading LowLoading
10 U 12
100%
iance Irradiance I' radiuocc Pole ID
(b)

DC Injection along the Feeder (a) Scenario i (b) Scenario 2

Oépartment ot Electncai Engineering, o'
of of Moaluw.•
 Formation of Duck Curve

Formation of Duck Curve

Example:
200 • Currently in Australia,
. N Of Australian
ZOO. — S Ne.•ernbe•
7006
households have roof-top PV
201a —n 2015 installed
507mv 20 • Projection
21 for contribution
2010. uw
400
10 2M > 45% of Australia's electricity
232 MW
by 2050
2019.e2
• Operators expect that area
distribution network over-
EmÉm
Standyd voltage issues will appear
unless careful mitigating
strategies are applied.

Source: ENR-NARUC-Sn Lanka ReguOt'*-y •M

Power Quality, held on March 16. 2023 w'th
(ENR) Power Sector Program at the US.
 Challenges due to the Formation of Duck Curve
• Balancing supply and
demand: The shape of the duck curve,
supply and demand of electricity with its steep changes in demand, makes it challenging to balance the
in the power grid. Power grid operators must manage the variability and uncertainty of solar energy
generation to ensure that there
is enough electricity available to meet the demand during peak periods while avoiding oversupply
during off-peak hours.
• Need for flexible power
generation: The shape of the duck curve requires flexible power generation to be available to supplement
solar energy generation during periods
of high demand. This can be challenging for power grid operators, as flexible power
generation can be expensive and may have
environmental Impacts.
• Grid stability and reliability: The shape
of the duck curve can create challenges for maintaining grid stability and reliability The
increased integration of solar PV can lead to changes in power flows, voltage levels, and frequency regulation, requinng new
technologies and control strategies to maintain grid stability and reliability
• Planning and coordination: The increased integration of solar PV requires careful planning and coordination between stakeholders.
including regulators, utilities, and grid operators,to ensure that the grid can support the growing amount of solar PV and maintain
grid stability and reliability.
• Curtailment f renewable energy: The shape of the duck curve can lead to curtailment of renewable energy when there is excess
S rgy on the grid and not enough demand. Curtailment of renewable energy represents a waste of resources and reduces the
overall efficiency of the power system.
• Impact on electricity prices: The shape of the duck curve can result in higher electricity prices during peak demand periods. as more
expensive sources of energy are used to meet the demand. This can result in higher energy bills for consumers and businesses.

tng. Lidula PhDprofessor.

Department of Electrical Engheeeing, Univeroty of

Major Challenges for Protection

Systems

sha'B.A
 Protection Relay 'blinding'
There may be a situation where there is
not enough fault current to trip anv
relays
('blinding') and hence faults arc not
cleared and removed from the networl€.

• When a fault occurs at F, the fault current is

the impedance to yield the fault current fromgoverned by the voltage divided by the magnitude of
the grid, If G.
• When the low voltage feeder is equipped with
in the system. the distributed generation unit, two things change
an increase in the fault current at the fault location,
generator I which is now also contributed to by the distributed
E.G f,DG•
*the magnitude of If G which may reduce by a
is great enough to raise the feeder voltage at considerable amount if the rating of the distributed generator
its point of common coupling during a fault.
—The protection relay for the 'CB' is then blind to some
faults that it used to pick-up.
WA.. PhD
Proteøor, Oeu'rtment Eiectricai Encincering, univer•utyot Moatuwa

Affect on Device Discrimination

• Traditional protection strategies in power systems rely on 'discrimination'
to
provide effective response from the protection stand-point.
• As the fault moves downstream from the centralised generation, the fault
impedance increases hence the fault current level decreases at the point in
the network where the relays are measuring current.
• This means that the ratio of fault current to the normal current decreases
slower the closer the relay is to the fault. This results in the relay tripping
that is closest to the fault thereby minimising the number of feeders that are
disconnected from the network due to this local fault.
• When distributed generation is connected to the network, the magnitude
and direction of fault currents are significantly affected if the generator is of
a relatively sizeable power.
Eng. Liduia WA., PhD
Profe%.or, Department Of Engineering. University 0! Moatuw.o
 non

relo.v
p.•du•61 re.nh

Under-reach

• Reach of impedance relays: Impedance relays effectively measure the impedance from
the relay to the fault and combine this with other measured parameters to assess how far
the fault is from the relay location.
• The relay is said to have a certain 'reach' and this reach is coordinated with other relays to
create a set of protection zones.
• When a fault occurs, it will be in reach of one relay based on the assessment of the
impedance from each relay location to the specified fault.
Eng. Lidula Nilakshi W.A.. PhD
Professor. Department of Electrical Engineering. University Of Moatuwa

cm
rexho'
HV/t„v prote.•uon

ret.
Main Grid

Under-reach

• When a distributed generator is placed in the network, it changes the impedance of

a fault occurring downstream.
• Local generation effectively increases the impedance measured by the relay as the
current during a fault is reduced, hence the ratio W/ increases.
• The relay monitors the impedance, WI, and fails to trip. This situation is referred to
as 'under-reach'.
UåutaEit•bhi WA. PhD
of Engineering. University of Mo•tuwa
 tech

Gnu

Sympathetic Tripping

• Occurs when a fault (Fl) on one feeder causes both its own circuit breaker, CBI, to
trip on over-current but also CB2 trips.
• The main cause of CB2 tripping is the flow of fault current from the distributed
generator back up feeder L2 to combine with the fault current from the main grid
through Ll to trip CBI on overcurrent.
• For this mode of nuisance tripping to occur, CB2, must be a bidirectional relay.
tne. w.A.. PhD
Professor, Oeaartmenl of Electrical Engineering, univer,ity of Mo•tuwa

Islanding and Feeder Reclose

• If a circuit breaker opens say CB2, then the
distributed generation, if not correctly
coordinated, could maintain the feeder
downstream of the circuit breaker in a live state. jrv,t.v
• The consequence of this may will be an
unintentional microgrid, where the feeder
voltage and frequency may be varying widely
given the low inertia in the microgrid system.
Protecting the network is very challenging.
• To compound the problems, if CB2 is a reclosing
breaker,when the breaker closes the two grid
voltages and frequencies either side of the
circuit breaker may be very different to one
another.
*This will result in a peak current flow on reclosing the
breaker that may be considerably worse than the
original fault current
Eng. MlakshiW.A,. Pho
Protessor. Department of Electrical Engineering, University Moatuwa
 Inverter Fault Response

Actu*

Rotational Generation Response Inverter Response

• The inverter response to faults is self-limiting in terms of the current which could be viewed as a
positive in some senses (self-protection from overcurrents), and negative in others (inability to
enerate enough fault current to trip relays). Inverter presents a voltage sag where the voltage
Yalls to 1/3 pu.
• The fault response of rotational generation is well-defined and generally the parameters required
to develop an accurate enough model of the generator are often supplied by the manufacturer
Eng.Udul* WA. PhD
Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering. University of Moatuwa

Fault Current Comparison

• Synchronqus genqrator fault current is
given by , —r,
Xd •Yd Xd Of on chrorous mxhhe parameters related to fault currert and
• From tabulated values, initial fault Solid Rotor Salient Pole SIC"
current can be 5-10 larger than rated Parameter TurbineGeneator Speed
current. x, 1.10 pu 120
• Inverter mav have a controlled current 0.23 pu 0-37 pu
capability of only 2-3 times rated value. 0.12 pu 024 ou 0.30-u
• The fault current is limited in the inverter 1-1 sec 5.6 sec
to avoid damage to the power
semiconductor devices. 0.0% sec 0.035 0.036 sec

• This presents an issue if the system is 016 0.15 sec CIS sec
inverter rich as the aggregated inverter
response may not be able to generate
enough current to trip relays.
Eng. Liduia Nilak%hiWA. PhD
Prdessor, Degartmenl of Electrial Engineering. University of Moatuw•
 Microgrid as a Solution

Microgrid as a Solution for Technical Impacts of DGs

Negative Challenge - Solutions with Microgridsand Implementation Challenges
Impacts of DG
Integration
Overvoltage Voltage regulation can • Microgrids can use energy storage systems (ESS) or demand response
be difficult to achieve programs to help regulate the output of DGs during contingencies, reducing
with variable generation the risk of overvoltage.
and load ESS can also provide reactive power support to help maintain voltage stabilit'ß
Challenges of implementation include designing and selecting appropriate
ESS technology and control strategies to meet specific performance and cost
requirements, as well as ensuring proper communication and coordination
with grid operators.
Underfrequency Frequency regulation Microgrids can use ESS, demand response programs, or load shedding
can be difficult to techniques to help regulate the output of DGs during contingencies, reducing
achieve with variable the risk of underfrequency.
generation and load ESS can also provide active power support to help maintain frequency
stability.
Challenges of implementation include designing and selecting appropriate
ESS technology and control strategies to meet specific performance and cost
requirements, as well as ensuring proper communication and coordination
Eng. Gdula PhD Professor,
Degartment of Llectrvcul Engineering. University Of Moatuwa
with grid operators.
 Microgrid as a Solution for Technical Impacts of DGs
Challenges
Negative Challenge Solutions with Microgrids and Implementation
Impacts of DG
Integration
systems to ensure
Islanding Ensuring proper Microgrids can use islanding detection and protection disconnect in the
grid and
synchronization with DGs are properly synchronized with the power
the grid can be event of an outage or fault,
selecting appropriate islanding
challenging • Challenges of implementation include DGs
on the characteristics of the
detection and protection methods based and commissioning of
proper testing
and the power grid, as well as ensuring
the protection systems.
equipment, such as voltage
PowerQuality Power quality Microgrids can use power conditioning power
adjust the output of DGs to meet
Issues standards can be regulators or inverters, to filter or
difficult to achieve quality standards. appropriate power
Challenges of implementation include selecting
with variable characteristics of the DGs and the
generation and load conditioningequipmentbased on the
commissioning and testing of the
power grid, as well as ensuring proper
equipment.

(idola WA. PhD Professor.

Ceøartmont of Electrical Engineering. University Of Moatuwa

Microgrid as a Solution for Technical Impacts of DGs

Negative Challenge Solutions with Microgrids and Implementation Challenges
Impacts of DG
Integration
Voltage Sags Maintaining voltage Microgrids can use ESS or voltage regulators to compensate for voltage sags
stability can be difficult caused by DGs, ensuring stable power delivery to critical loads.
with variable Challenges of implementation include designing and selecting appropriate
generation and load ESS or voltage regulator technology and control strategies based on the
characteristics of the DGs and the power grid, as well as ensuring proper
communication and coordination with grid operators.

Overloading Overloading can occur Microgrids can use load management systems to limit the output of DGs and
with high levels of DG prevent overloading of the distribution network.
penetration Challenges of implementation include designing and selecting appropriate
load management strategies based on the characteristics of the DGs and the
power grid, as well as ensuring proper coordination with grid operators and
customers to ensure reliable and efficient load management.

Eng. PhD Professor,

Cezartment of Electrical Eng'neenng. Univer-sityof Moatuwa
Microgrid as a Solution for Technical Impacts of DGs
Challenges
Negative Impacts Challenge Solutions with Microgrids and Implementation
of DG Integration

to ensure
Loss of Maintaining Microgrids can use synchronization equipment or control systems
Synchronization synchronization can DGs remain synchronized with the power grid during contingencies.
be challenging with Challenges of implementation include selecting appropriate synchronization
variable generation equipment or control strategies based on the characteristics of the OGs and
and load the power grid, as well as ensuring proper testing and commissioning of the
synchronization systems.

Ground Faults Ground faults can Microgrids can use ground fault detection and protection systems to detect
occur with high levels and protect against ground faults caused by DGs.
of DG penetration Challenges of implementation include selecting appropriate ground fault
detection and protection methods based on the characteristics of the DGs
and the power grid, as well as ensuring proper testing and commissioning of
the protection systems.

Eng, Kiduta Nitak3hi WA PhD Professor,

Oegznment of Electrical Englneerinz„ Univer•Jtv o' Moatuwa

Advantages of Microgrid Implementation

. Technical:
—i Improved power quality and reliability: Microgrids can use advanced control systems, energy storage systems, and
resources (DERs) to provide high-quality and reliable power, stabilizing voltage and frequency and providing backup
outages.
—iScalabilitv and modularity: Microgrids can be designed with modular components, making them easier to in%ll, maint2in. and
upgrade. they can also be scaled up or down depending on the energy needs of the communrtV or business.
—i Distributed generation: Microgrids allow for distributed generation, reducing the need for long-distance transmission tines and
reducing transmission losses.
-+ Load balancing: Microgrids can use energy storage systems to balance supply and demand. ensuring a stable and reEable
supply.
—iGrid integration: Microgrids can be integrated with the larger power grid, allowing for two-way energy flows and grad
stability.
—4Black start capability: Microgrids can rovide black start capability, meaning they can start up independents/ after a
restoring power to the community or usiness quickly.
—iEnhanced voltage and frequency regulation: Microgrids can use advanced control 9ßtems to maintain stable voltage ane
improvingpowerqualityand reliability.
-9 Improved grid security: Microgrids can enhance the security of the larger power grid by providing &tst6Sutedenerg•/resources that
can be isolated from the larger grid dunng emergencies or attacks.
—i Redundancy: Microgrids can incorporate multiple sources of energy. such as solar. wind, and natural gas generators. to
redundancy and improve reliability.
Increased grid reliability: Microqrids can improve grid reliability by providing distributed energy resources that can sug"ment the
larger power grid during times ot high demand or supply disruptions.
Eng. WÄ.. PhD
"cine-erinc. Universityo' Moatuwa
 Advantages of Microgrid Implementation
• Economical:
hcesed esciencv cest the usecf
-ese.-:es. a- •se to
cass
teEance on the target Cid: cn tse
See: c••
to sup$v
-4 Creation of new syez•s enesv tc
seiiacess energ•v
tc •e z-se- new streams-
—aRee=ed need expensi•æpeaking to the
use
—a to energycc,nsvngtion 'emand:
, need
to
p'at—ts

ha-easedenergy ass ere-n

Etess to tee—ate areas that are ret
energy access remote areas:
cf these n theseareas.
Fosses generat•g closet
Red=ed transmission Sistrzution losses:
t: cf of
ene€•v reS.es decenSet-•zecn a-reportedenergy sources
—• energy secur*yt can 0'Jt2,ses cc em.ersenc:æs
s.c•e-zes

Advantages of Microgrid Implementation

• Social: outages and suppty
—eIncreased energy' resiience: Microsrids can help cc—nunities become more resilient to power
disruptions, inprc'vins pudöc safety and ci life-
underserved
Imprc•æd energy access for underserved communities: Microsrids can pro•.ödeenergy access to
quart,' of tite and economic opportunities-
communees, impro•.fn€their boosting
instaUEticn, operation, and maintenance oi microgrid systems,
JOS creation: Microsrids can create jobs in the
local economies-
Wcrogrids cen backup power during em.ergencjes,allowing critical services
Improved emergency response: response centers, and shelters to continue operating-
such as hospitals, ernersenc•y'
en be owned and operzted by cornmunities, providing greater local control
CommunRy ownership: Micrcgrids community resilience-
enet-s•/supp"'/and suzportins
can promote democracy by enabling local communities to generate and
—9Energy democracy: Micrcsrids dependence on utilities and promoting Ioæl decision-makng-
consume their energy, reducing
equity providing
Impro•ed energy Microsrids can help to reduce energy poverty and improve energy'
communities-
affordabie and reiiazbe energy' access to low-income
can promote local sustain:biTiO' enabling communities to generate and
—eEnhanced local sustainability: Micrcsrids fossil fuels and supporting a transition to a more sust31naSe
consume tneir cw•nenergy, reducing dependence on
eners••,'system-
en help communities become more resilient to climate char.. extreme
—eImprc•æd community resiEence: Microsrids quality' of life-
events, and other environmentalthreats, improving public safety and
 Advantages of Microgrid Implementation
• Environmental :
greenhouse
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: Microgrids can support the deployment of renewable energy resources, reducing
gas emissions and promoting a transition to a low-carbon energy system.
improving
-4 Improved air quality: Microgrids can reduce the emissions of harmful air pollutants associated with f0%il fuel combustion,
local air quality and public health.
little or no water for
Reduced water consumption: Microgrids that use renewable energy resources, such as solar and wind, require
power generation, reducing water consumption.
plants, reducing land
Reduced land use: Microgridsthat use renewable energy resources require less land than conventional power
use and protecting natural habitats.
noise pollutjon,
—sReduced noise pollution: Microgrids that use enewable energy resources, such as solar, produce little or no
improving local quality of life,
disruptions and price
—4Reduced reliance on fossil fuels: Micro rids can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, reducing the risk of supply
volatility associated with fossil fuel mar ets and emission reduction
Reduced environmental impact of energy transportation: Microgrids can reduce the environmental impact Of energy transportation,
reducing the need for long-distance transmission lines and associated land use, wildlife impacts, and emissions.
in their
—sSupport for circular economy: Microgridscan support the circular economy by using recycled materials and components
construction and operation, reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
as Oil
—9Reduced environmental risk: Microgridscan reduce the environmental risks associated with traditional power plants, such
and nuclear accidents, improving public safety and environmental protection.
generate and
Enhanced environmental stewardship: Microgridscan promote environmental stewardship by enabling communities tosustainable
consume their own energy, reducing dependence on environmentally damaging energy sources and promoting a more
energy system.
Eng. Udula w.A.. PhD
Professor,Department Of Electrical Enginocring, University of Moatuwa