The reliability and resilience of the current power grid are constantly threatened by natural disasters, physical attacks, and cyber-attacks. These events not only inconvenience customers but also cut people off from critical services that are essential for their health and well-being. To address these challenges, new grid systems are being developed, such as microgrids, which offer a solution by providing localized grids that can operate autonomously. Microgrids can function independently from the traditional grid or support remote and isolated communities when necessary.

Microgrid R&D (MGRD) Activities

Microgrids have the unique ability to disconnect from the main grid and continue operating autonomously at a local level. This resilience allows them to mitigate grid disturbances and strengthen the overall grid system. During power outages, microgrids can function as a reliable energy resource, ensuring faster system response and recovery.

Moreover, microgrids play a crucial role in supporting a flexible and efficient electric grid. They are capable of adapting to the integration of growing deployments of renewable energy sources like solar farms and electric vehicles. By utilizing local sources of energy to serve local loads, microgrids minimize energy losses in transmission and distribution, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the electric delivery system.

Future Vision of Microgrids

The goal is for microgrids to become essential building blocks of the future electricity delivery system by 2035. This vision aims to support grid resilience, decarbonization, and affordability. To make this vision a reality, the Advanced Grid Research and Development Coordinating Committee (ACDC) has identified four strategic R&D areas. These areas include reducing the time and cost of microgrid deployment, establishing microgrids as a foundation for future grids, advancing microgrid control and protection, and integrating models and tools for efficient microgrid planning, design, and operation. Additionally, transmission and distribution co-simulation of microgrid impacts and benefits will help identify and validate the value of energy storage microgrids.

Enabling Regulatory and Business Models

To encourage broad deployment of microgrids, it is crucial to establish regulatory frameworks and business models that facilitate microgrid investments from various stakeholders. This includes private sector companies, regulated utilities, communities, and states. By enabling regulatory and business models, the aim is to unlock the full potential of microgrids and optimize their benefits for both the grid system and its customers.

The Microgrid R&D Program

The Microgrid R&D (MGRD) program is a comprehensive portfolio that focuses on developing and implementing microgrids to improve the reliability and resiliency of the grid system. The program aims to help communities better prepare for future weather events and support the nation's transition to a cleaner energy future by promoting affordable and equitable microgrids.

Microgrid Program Strategy

The Department of Energy (DOE) initiated the Microgrid Program Strategy in December 2020. The strategy aims to define the research and development areas necessary to support the vision and goals of the Office of Electricity (OE) within the next 5 to 10 years. Microgrid experts have deliberated on these areas, focusing on metrics such as reliability, resilience, decarbonization, and affordability. As a result, seven strategic white papers have been developed, including one overarching white paper that outlines the program's vision, objectives, and targets.

In conclusion, the development of microgrids as localized and autonomous grid systems presents a solution to the challenges faced by the current power supply grid. These microgrids offer improved reliability, resilience, and flexibility while integrating growing deployments of renewable energy sources. By investing in research and development, enabling regulatory frameworks, and implementing cost-effective deployment strategies, microgrids can become essential building blocks in the future electricity delivery system, supporting grid resilience, decarbonization, and affordability. The DOE's Microgrid Program Strategy is a comprehensive effort to drive the advancement of microgrids and create a cleaner and more reliable energy future for all.

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Laman web rujukan: https://www.energy.gov