Peak Load Reduction and Resilience Benefits in Critical Microgrids

Microgrids configured using a specific control system to provide correct power quality for local loads that can be either connected or disconnected from the grid, operating grid-connected or islanded mode can be designed to improve the resilience of critical energy systems. In case of grid failure, an energy storage combined with one or several local generators can provide backup power and considering both conventional and renewable energy systems, this research presents an operational resilience analysis for critical facilities, in this case a hospital. The proposed methodology allows studying the possibility to maintain the energy supply and evaluating resilience benefits of a microgrid integrated in critical facilities when power outages occur. Optimization of the dispatch and heating and cooling strategies is presented and analyzed and a case study characterizing an electric polygeneration microgrid feeding critical loads is presented. Results show the benefits and the increased energy resilience resulting from the use of solar PV, electrochemical batteries, combined heat and power, TES water tanks and absorption chillers and proposes a design and optimization scheme that can be applied for similar facilities and extensive to any critical loads. Economic results prove the economic benefits resulting from the use of an optimal resilient microgrid. In particular, it is found that, in the event of an outage, the positive monetary effects last longer than the duration of the outage.