Planning, Operation and Control of Microgrids

The growing global demand for electrical energy presents an urgent need for more efficient and reliable systems to meet this demand. Although conventional power systems, characterized by centralized generation and unidirectional energy flow, have served well, they face significant challenges in terms of scalability, environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Microgrids, as controllable structures with distributed generation, storage systems, and loads, offer an innovative solution to these challenges by enabling flexible, reliable, and sustainable energy distribution.

This special issue focuses on the advancement of the field of microgrids, specifically in the areas of planning, operation, and control, to enhance their efficiency and reliability. The articles in this issue present novel contributions that tackle various aspects of microgrid design, optimization, and integration, pushing the boundaries of how these systems can be employed in both isolated and grid-connected configurations.

One of the central challenges in microgrid development is the optimization of energy management systems (EMS) to effectively handle the high penetration of renewable energy sources while maintaining stability and efficiency. Ref. [1] propose a robust convex optimization model for designing an EMS in unipolar DC grids with high photovoltaic penetration. Their model achieves significant reductions in both losses and CO₂ emissions, addressing critical environmental and efficiency concerns in microgrid operations.

Ref. [2] present a solution to the issue of neutral grounding in bipolar DC grids with asymmetric loads. By applying a mixed quadratic recursive model, they minimize energy losses and enhance the operational reliability of microgrids under diverse loading conditions. This work highlights the importance of advanced optimization techniques in ensuring microgrid stability and efficiency.

In another contribution, Ref. [3] explore the use of fuzzy control for optimizing maximum power point tracking in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). By implementing this control method, they improve the efficiency of SOFCs, which are critical components in hybrid microgrid systems. This approach exemplifies how advanced control strategies can be used to maximize the potential of renewable energy sources, further improving the overall performance of microgrids.

Ref. [4] address the implementation of IEEE 1547 and 2030 standards in microgrids in Saudi Arabia, offering valuable information on the regulatory and technical requirements for integrating microgrids into existing energy systems. Their work underscores the importance of standardization in ensuring the seamless operation of microgrids across different regions.

Ref. [5] introduce an autonomous voltage regulation scheme for DC buses in bipolar microgrids. By utilizing distributed energy storage systems, they enhance system stability without requiring external communication. This contribution demonstrates the potential of decentralized control systems to maintain voltage regulation and improve the reliability of microgrids in real-time operations.

Together, these articles represent a significant step forward in the planning, operation, and control of microgrids. Each contribution highlights the role of advanced optimization techniques, innovative control methods, and regulatory frameworks in addressing the challenges of integrating distributed energy resources into microgrids. By focusing on key aspects of energy management, stability, and efficiency, the research presented in this special issue contributes to the development of more reliable, sustainable, and flexible microgrid systems.

The insights provided by these contributions are crucial in advancing the state of the art in microgrid technology. The integration of renewable energy sources, energy storage, and advanced control strategies offers new possibilities for the future of decentralized energy systems, paving the way for more sustainable and resilient power systems worldwide.