Minigrid Management System Development & Trials

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Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK

£221,585

Nov. 1, 2022

April 30, 2023

'Minigrids' are electrical networks that have traditionally existed outwith the main national grid but are beginning to gain traction on more conventional electrical networks to enable matching of local renewable generation and demand as well as improve overall electrical system resiliency. Islanded minigrids are generally located within geographically remote locations, these networks are responsible for managing all of their own electrical infrastructure and ensuring there is enough power available for all consumers connected to their network.

Managing these systems requires a careful balancing act between maximising energy consumption whilst allowing sufficient power capacity to ensure that demand never exceeds generation. This can be exceptionally time-consuming and challenging for non-technical owners of minigrids. Furthermore, if it isn't done correctly, it can result in limiting the growth of the network or even service disruption for those connected to it.

Working with the islanded minigrids in the UK, this project will see the development of a 'Minigrid Management System', whose primary purpose is to increase consumer engagement with the local energy system and improve the utilisation of the connected renewable generators. This management system will also support the minigrid operators by increasing the efficiency of the system, reducing the management burden, maximising the lifespan of the connected assets and optimising usage of the available renewable energy resource.