Microgrid construction approval procedures

What is a microgrid?

The DOE defines a microgrid as a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources (DERs) within clearly defined electrical boundaries that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the power grid.

Should microgrid planning and design tools be repurposed?

While microgrid planning and design tools achieve their project goals and requirements, repurposing them to meet new or evolving requirements is often a time consuming and difficult proposition.

What should be included in a feasibility assessment for microgrid projects?

A feasibility assessment for microgrid projects should include all aspects of historical energy use/cost analysis, individual project identification, physical site/facilities due diligence, and projected financial and environmental benefits for projects meeting energy cost savings goals and resiliency objectives for critical loads.

Can microgrids be used in transmission-level resource planning?

The combination of these developments identifies benefits that microgrids can provide within many aspects of distribution planning. Ultimately, this development will enable microgrids to be included within transmission-level resource planning such as integrated resource planning processes.

What is a microgrid planning capability?

Planning capability that supports the ability to model and design new microgrid protection schemes that are more robust to changing conditions such as load types, inverter-based resources, and networked microgrids.

Are microgrids a viable solution for integrating distributed energy resources?

1. Introduction Microgrids offer a viable solution for integrating Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), including in particular variable and unpredictable renewable energy sources, low-voltage and medium-voltage into distribution networks.