microgrids

Microgrids are localized groups of electricity resources and loads that can operate connected to the main power grid or independently in island mode. They typically combine distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar photovoltaic, wind, combined heat and power, energy storage, and controllable loads, all managed by a microgrid controller and power-electronics interfaces to the wider grid. The objective is to improve reliability, resilience, sustainability, and economic operation for a defined area such as a campus, hospital, industrial facility, or remote community.

Microgrids can operate in grid-connected mode under the utility’s supervision or in islanded mode when the connection to the main grid is interrupted. In island mode they can supply critical loads using local generation and storage. Automatic switching devices and microgrid controllers coordinate generation, storage, and demand to maintain power quality and seamless transitions between modes. Grid-forming and grid-following inverters, along with energy-management systems, enable autonomous operation and optimized scheduling.

Applications include educational campuses, hospitals, data centers, military bases, manufacturing sites, and remote or island communities. Benefits commonly cited are improved resilience against outages, enhanced reliability, potential reductions in energy costs and emissions, and greater integration of renewables. Challenges include high capital costs, regulatory and tariff barriers, interoperability with the main grid, cybersecurity concerns, and the need for advanced controls and skilled operation.

Standards and regulatory frameworks address interconnection, safety, and interoperability, with initiatives such as IEEE 1547 and related grid-automation and energy-management standards guiding design and operation. As technology matures, microgrids are increasingly deployed as modular components of local energy systems.