Research project

Microgrids comprise Low Voltage distribution systems with distributed energy sources, storage devices and controllable loads, operated connected to the main power network or islanded, in a controlled, coordinated way.

The project aims at the increase of penetration of microgeneration in electrical networks through the exploitation and extension of the Microgrids concept, involving the investigation of alternative microgenerator control strategies and alternative network designs, development of new tools for multi-microgrids management operation and standardisation of technical and commercial protocols.

Research within the EU FP5 Project MICROGRIDS, focused on the operation of a single Microgrid, has successfully investigated appropriate control techniques and demonstrated the feasibility of Microgrids operation through laboratory experiments.

The EU FP6 Project MORE MICROGRIDS project extends the work significantly with the following Scientific and technical Objectives organized in 8 Workpackages:

WPA	Design of micro source and load controller for efficient integration
WPB	Development of Alternative Control Strategies (hierarchical vs. distributed)
WPC	Alternative Microgrids Design
WPD	Technical and Commercial Integration of Multi-Microgrids
WPE	Standardization of Technical and Commercial Protocols and Hardware
WPF	Field trials on actual Microgrids
WPG	Evaluation of the system performance on power system operation
WPH	Impact on the Development of Electricity Infrastructure (expansion planning)

The Consortium comprises major European manufacturers, power utilities and potential Microgrid operators and research teams with complementary, high quality expertise. Several participants of the projects have cooperated effectively in the previous EU Microgrids project acquiring significant know-how and gaining world-wide recognition in this field.

Budget: 7.85 Mio. EUR.

Link: Microgrids