MicroGrid Internet of Energy Practices
The question of off-grid electricity worldwide is very acute. The large number of areas are remote and isolated from the grid. More than 1 billion people live in such territories, including a large number of islands. On the one hand, the traditional diesel electricity generation is possible, but this pollutes the environment and negatively affects the climate. Alternatively, renewable energy (RES) may be installed, but their generation depends on weather conditions, making the supply unreliable and unstable. And the question is, how do we make energy reliable and sustainable at the same time? Obviously, this can be achieved by combining two types of energy sources into one system, which is called Microgrid. More than 6,000 microgrids are currently being implemented around the world.
Universal problem
It is not possible to build a reliable energy supply system on the islands without the use of non-renewable resources and atmospheric pollution.
Solution
Self-contained hybrid energy systems (microgrids) that optimize the mix of reliable (regulated) and renewable energy sources. The practice allows for flexible management of consumption using a maximum share (now 65% of annual) of renewable energy sources, reducing fuel consumption.
Target Image
In the future, autonomous hybrid systems will use only renewable energy sources (with 100% RES penetration).
Experiment Framework
The experiment examines the sustainability, manageability, economy and achievable share of RES in the energy mix. It analyses the optimal mix of energy sources and their regulation. Hydro Tasmania monitors and performs real-time power system changes.
This community operates the KEREIP project on King Island, which optimally combines regulated and renewable energy sources.
This community operates the KEREIP project on King Island, which optimally combines regulated and renewable energy sources.
Tools and technologies
The project uses:
- a digital real-time control system,
- a flywheel drive,
- resistive dampers as power balance regulators.
Scaling Plans
It is planned to gradually equip all the islands of Oceania with such systems. There are four projects already implemented.
Standards and Values
Power supply, which is:
- Autonomous
- Carbon neutral
- Reliable (uninterrupted)
- Unlimited to the consumer
Communities and Leaders
Hydro Tasmania is a leading Australian producer of clean and renewable energy and its partners: Colony 47, Volunteering Tasmania, and The Smith Family.
Allies
Microgrid is also supported by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). Its aim is to increase the competitiveness of renewable energy technologies and expand the non-fossil fuel-based energy base.
