In the quest for sustainable and reliable energy solutions, a groundbreaking study led by Md. Fatin Ishraque from the Department of Electrical, Electronic and Communication Engineering at Pabna University of Science and Technology in Bangladesh, offers a promising approach to stabilizing grid-connected microgrids. Published in the journal “Hasil dalam Teknik” (Results in Engineering), the research introduces a hybrid microgrid system that integrates solar power with hydrogen-battery storage, addressing critical challenges in voltage and frequency stability during peak and off-peak hours.
The study focuses on three control methods—Constant Q, Voltage Iq-Droop, and Voltage Q-Droop—to evaluate their effectiveness in maintaining system stability. According to Ishraque, “The Constant Q controller emerged as the most effective in stabilizing voltage, frequency, and power quality, ensuring a seamless integration of renewable energy sources with the main grid.” This finding is significant for the energy sector, as it provides a robust solution to the instability issues that often plague hybrid microgrids.
The research also explores two dispatch strategies, Load Following (LF) and Cycle Charging (CC), optimized through derivative-free optimization techniques. These strategies aim to balance cost-effectiveness and low-emission operation, crucial factors for commercial viability. The optimized system achieved impressive results, including an 89.1% renewable energy fraction, selling 192,161 kWh/year back to the grid, and operating at a remarkably low cost of $0.0132/kWh.
The economic and environmental benefits are equally compelling. The system demonstrated a 73% internal rate of return, a simple payback period of just 1.4 years, and significantly reduced emissions, with CO2 emissions at 18,647 kg/year and SO2 emissions at 80.8 kg/year. These outcomes underscore the feasibility and scalability of the proposed hybrid system for clean and stable power generation.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the need for stable and efficient microgrid systems becomes increasingly critical. This research provides a blueprint for future developments, offering a practical and cost-effective solution that can be replicated and scaled across various regions.
Ishraque’s work not only advances the technical understanding of microgrid control and dispatch strategies but also paves the way for commercial applications that can drive the energy transition forward. By integrating advanced control methods and optimization techniques, the study sets a new standard for stable and sustainable energy solutions, shaping the future of the energy sector.