Voltage Profile Improvement Techniques of Interconnected Microgrids

Abstract

In recent years, the adoption of microgrids has emerged as a viable solution to resolve the problems of the traditional power grid system. It also provides an optimal way to reduce harmful emissions in the environment. The microgrid (MG) contains Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) and manageable loads, which efficiently work independently and collaboratively on the main grid. The decentralized structure of the microgrids makes them less prone to physical and cyberattacks. Generally, they depend on energy sources like photovoltaics (PVs) to address the mission problems and integrate energy-effective strategies such as heating, cooling, and power production. The microgrids reduce the losses incurred during distribution and transmission as they are placed nearer to the loads. These features make the microgrids more reliable and eco-friendly electricity sources. However, the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (RESs) induces certain limitations for microgrid function, making the energy management process complex. The DERs are incorporated with the Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) to resolve these intermittency challenges, which have increasing maintenance costs. Hence, interconnected microgrids are developed which have the capacity of sharing energy with nearby MGs during power shortages. Thus, this type of MGs eliminates the intermittency issues of DERs and minimize dependence on ESSs. However, they face issues in preserving the desired voltage profile at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) because of many sources. This study demonstrates different approaches to enhancing the voltage profile within the interconnected microgrids.