What is a microgrid?
A microgrid is a system which links electrical loads and distributed generation sources, and is able to operate both connected to the national grid and autonomously (in so-called “island” mode).
Low environmental impact microgrids that integrate renewable energy generation and electricity storage systems (such as batteries) are becoming increasingly widespread thanks to:
- their benefits in terms of environmental sustainability;
- the falling costs of energy storage technologies (e.g. batteries) and renewable energy generation systems (e.g. photovoltaic systems);
- the development of intelligent control systems which allow the active management of electrical loads and stored electricity, and which, essentially, result in a reduction in energy supply costs.
Source: IRENA http://irena.org/newsroom/articles/2016/Oct/Solving-the-Energy-Access-Problem-with-Renewable-Mini-Grids
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