Microgrid Automation Systems Market Update
Key Points:
- A microgrid is a self-contained electrical network that allows users to generate their own electricity on-site and use it when needed
- Microgrid automation is a subset of all grid automation, and it’s about 15% the size of the entire grid
- Many suppliers are coming into the electrical switch gear, recloser, and protection area
- ARC has a Microgrid Automation System Selection Guide to help industrial manufacturers select the best system and supplier
ARC Advisory Group has released a market update on Microgrid Automation Systems, which are self-contained electrical networks that allow users to generate their own electricity on-site and use it as needed. Microgrids typically use a combination of backup diesel generators and renewables, such as solar panels, for electricity generation. They can also incorporate battery systems to store electricity for use during outages or high-demand periods.
Microgrid automation is a subset of grid automation and makes up about 15% of the entire grid. The hardware for microgrids includes inverters, rectifier battery chargers, relays, reclosers, switchgear, circuit protection, power meetings, SCADA, switching, and communications. ARC’s scope for microgrids is limited to roughly a hundred megawatts, excluding residential-level systems.
There are several suppliers in the microgrid automation market, including SEL, Siemens, GE, and Schneider Electric, who provide physical equipment for electrical switch gear, recloser, and protection. Additionally, there are primary control relay safety relays and secondary levels of local management and control for distributed energy storage and loads. There could also be a tertiary level for remote connection to the grid, controls, optimization, and load forecasting.
ARC has developed a Microgrid Automation System Selection Guide to assist industrial manufacturers in selecting the best system and supplier for their specific business requirements.