In the heart of India’s bustling capital, researchers at the Electrical Engineering Department of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi are pioneering a new approach to microgrid technology that could revolutionize how we harness and distribute renewable energy. Led by Kripa Tiwari, a team of innovators has developed an alternating current (AC) microgrid system that not only integrates wind and solar power but also ensures uninterrupted power supply and enhanced power quality.
The microgrid, described in a recent study published in the journal Energy Conversion and Economics, which translates to English as Energy Conversion and Economics, employs a sophisticated strategy to manage power flow within the system. By converting renewable energy sources to DC using DC–DC converters and then integrating them into a common AC bus through parallel voltage source converters, the system aims to provide a stable and reliable power supply to local loads.
One of the standout features of this research is the development of a unified power flow strategy. This strategy takes into account peak and off-peak electricity pricing, as well as the battery state of charge, to optimize grid and storage utilization. “Our goal is to ensure reliable power delivery while making the most efficient use of available resources,” says Kripa Tiwari, the lead author of the study. “By considering factors like electricity pricing and battery state of charge, we can significantly enhance the overall efficiency and sustainability of the microgrid.”
However, integrating power electronics with renewable energy sources isn’t without its challenges. Power quality issues, particularly harmonic distortion, can arise at the point of common coupling. To address this, the researchers have implemented a frequency-locked loop based on an amplitude integrator, coupled with a harmonic decoupling network. This innovative approach extracts the fundamental components of the grid voltage, effectively reducing harmonic distortion and ensuring a cleaner, more stable power supply.
The practical implications of this research are vast. For the energy sector, this technology could pave the way for more reliable and efficient microgrid systems, reducing dependence on traditional power sources and promoting the use of renewable energy. “This research has the potential to shape future developments in the field by providing a robust framework for integrating renewable energy sources into existing power grids,” Tiwari explains. “It could lead to more sustainable and resilient energy systems, benefiting both consumers and the environment.”
The study’s findings were validated through laboratory testing using a hardware prototype, with the results demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed topology and control strategies. As the world continues to seek sustainable energy solutions, innovations like these could play a crucial role in shaping the future of the energy sector.
