Modeling, Simulation and Sizing of a Microgrid in the University Campus

Abstract

The current power grid is one of the most complex engineering systems in the world. Electricity generation in the traditional power grid is very centralized, where energy is delivered unidirectionally from power plants to end-users via a transmission network. With a worldwide increase in population and thus in electricity demand, the technical problems as well as the environmental concerns associated with fossil fuel combustion have stimulated research to develop new technologies for more sustainable, reliable, and efficient energy systems. With the emergence of Distributed Energy Resources as Solar, wind, biomass, etc., smart microgrids are gradually being recognized as a solution for various problems in the current power system especially for remote regions and well-defined loads as university or military campuses. Using renewable energy sources along with the traditional power generators, also energy storage, and controlling the energy usage are some of the novel aspects of smart microgrids. The purpose of this study is to propose a modeled and simulated design of a DC microgrid for a localized area in the “university campus of Chetouane”. The system is grid-connected and can provide energy autonomously using solar panels, with a backup supply of batteries and a diesel generator. The research results will be valuable to the energy management sector and related decisionmakers in developing better tools for sustainable and cost-effective energy. This study focuses on the adoption of a decentralized hybrid electricity system in Algerian universities and goes hand in hand with the government's objective to diversify its energy mix as well as going towards achieving SDG's and global targets.