Autonomous Microgrids: Theory, Control, Flexibility and Scalability
Abstract
From large scale electric power grids and microgrids down to small scale electronics, power networks are typically deployed using a xed infrastructure architecture that cannot expand or contract without signi cant human intervention. Mobile, monolithic power systems exist but are also not readily scalable to exploit surrounding power sources and storage devices. However, if a power network is constructed from physically independent and autonomous building blocks, then it would be in nitely recon gurable and adaptable to changing needs. The aim is to integrate vehicle robotics with intelligent power electronics to create self-organizing, ad-hoc, hybrid ac/dc microgrids. The main bene ts of this system would be the establishment and operation of an electrical power networks completely independent of human interaction. In the context of U.S. Naval platforms, this autonomous electrical network could be could be used in land, air or sea systems. This project proposes a focus on land based autonomous microgrid systems, but the fundamental theory developed may be applicable to air and sea based systems as well. Investigators at Michigan Technological University have developed initial hardware and test-beds to study this problem. However, a more detailed theoretical foundation is needed to be developed to apply autonomous microgrids to a wide variety of operational scenarios with various resources. It is also hypothesised that given the exibility of this approach that it could be equally applied over a vast scale of energy assets. A microgrid that grows in situ from 10 s to 100 s to 1000 s of energy assets can be equally managed, controlled and optimized through this highly scalable approach. The aim of this work is to establish the theoretical foundations of a exible, stable and e cient ad-hoc microgrids assembled and controlled autonomously. With this approach to an electric power system, the energy and resources are highly recon gurable and robust in a wide array of operations without the need for human intervention. If loads, generation, or other assets change, then the nodes can physically and electrically recon gure to meet the new demand or generation opportunities. Bene ts for future Navy and Marine operations will include: 1. Autonomous construction of electrical network without need for human interaction will lessen personnel requirements and allow for human resource focus on other operational tasks. 2. Overall operational fuel e ciencies and reduce logistical burdens through optimized energy storage technology and control. This will minimize energy generation assets size, such as diesel gensets, thus also improving the portability of the system. 3. Stability and Robustness by proper selection of electrical conversion controls. 4. Flexibility by enabling the widest array of resources and electrical connections (dc, single phase ac, three phase ac), as well as optimal response to external changes in the system such as changing loads or resources and re-con guration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 21, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141612422
Entities
People
- Wayne W. Weaver
Organizations
- Michigan Technological University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy