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Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition
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Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A1: Smart Grids and Microgrids".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 8 July 2026 | Viewed by 7441

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ghjuvan Antone Faggianelli

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Science for the Environment, University of Corsica, UMR CNRS 6134, 20000 Ajaccio, France
Interests: microgrids; photovoltaics; energy management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Christian Cristofari

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Laboratory of Environmental Sciences SPE-UMR 6134, University of Corsica Pascal Paoli, 22 Avenue Jean Nicoli, 20250 Corte, France
Interests: hydrogen; microgrids
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Nowadays, microgrids appear as a valuable option to provide a reliable electricity supply. Due to their ability to operate in grid-connected mode or islanded mode, they can improve the flexibility of the power grid while increasing the security of supply for consumers.

One challenge with the major development of microgrids is to support the new paradigm of electrical grids: moving from traditional grids with one-way control to new architectures with decentralized production and two-way interactions. Moreover, most microgrids focus on renewable energy systems, such as photovoltaics and wind power to produce electricity. High renewable energy penetration introduces a greater complexity due to the intermittent and unpredictable nature of these sources.

Common solutions to this issue lie in the use of energy storage systems with the development of robust energy management strategies, which may include production and load forecasting tools. According to the main purpose of the microgrid, various objectives can be met, such as optimizing the economic benefit, ensuring the security of supply, aiming for a certain level of self-consumption or reducing the carbon emission of the grid. Some of these points can be considered as constraints while others can be optimized through different methods (single or multi-objective problems).

This Special Issue aims to present and disseminate the most recent developments that contribute to improve the management of microgrids and their interaction with the electrical grid.

Topics of interest for this Special Issue include but are not limited to:

  • Integration of renewable energy sources
  • Energy storage systems for microgrids
  • Microgrid optimal sizing
  • Energy management strategies
  • Energy supply reliability
  • Production forecasting applied to energy management
  • Load forecasting and scheduling

Dr. Ghjuvan Antone Faggianelli
Prof. Dr. Christian Cristofari
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • microgrids
  • renewable energy
  • energy storage
  • energy management

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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28 pages, 3847 KB  
Article
Optimal Reactive Power Compensation in Rural Distribution Systems Through a Neuroscience-Based Optimization Approach
by Juan M. Lujano-Rojas, Rodolfo Dufo-López, Jesús S. Artal-Sevil and José L. Bernal-Agustín
Energies 2026, 19(8), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19081968 - 18 Apr 2026
Viewed by 183
Abstract
Improving the efficiency of distribution systems (DSs) through reactive power compensation using shunt capacitor banks is a widely applied practice, as it enhances the voltage profile and reduces operating costs. Owing to the nonlinear nature of DSs, heuristic algorithms—along with other optimization tools—are [...] Read more.
Improving the efficiency of distribution systems (DSs) through reactive power compensation using shunt capacitor banks is a widely applied practice, as it enhances the voltage profile and reduces operating costs. Owing to the nonlinear nature of DSs, heuristic algorithms—along with other optimization tools—are frequently employed to support techno-economic decision-making in DS design. In this study, we employ the neural population dynamics optimization algorithm (NPDOA), a recently developed heuristic approach inspired by brain neuroscience. The simulation and optimization model adopted in this research is based on quasi-static time-series analysis, which enables the planning problem and DS constraints to be examined from a probabilistic perspective. A comparative analysis with the genetic algorithm (GA) and the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) indicates that NPDOA provides a similar solution with comparable computational time. Specifically, the results show that NPDOA produces a solution only 0.02% higher than GA, with improvement probabilities of 27.42% and 10.94%, respectively. In comparison with WOA, NPDOA yields a solution that is 0.05% lower, with a corresponding probability of improvement of 10.76%. Furthermore, the installation of shunt capacitor banks optimized using NPDOA reduces the net present cost by 33%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 7081 KB  
Article
Grid-Frequency-Independent Static Var Compensator Control Using a Synchronous Phase-Carrier with Direct Firing Instant Determination for Leading Load Compensation in Renewable Energy DC Bus
by Jongho Lim, Hyunjae Lee, Sungyong Son and Jingeun Shon
Energies 2026, 19(7), 1696; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19071696 - 30 Mar 2026
Viewed by 330
Abstract
Static var compensators (SVCs) employing thyristor-controlled reactors (TCRs) are widely used to mitigate power-factor degradation by absorbing lagging reactive power. Conventional TCR control schemes use real-time firing-angle calculations, which require intensive computation and make practical real-time implementation difficult, especially under grid frequency variations. [...] Read more.
Static var compensators (SVCs) employing thyristor-controlled reactors (TCRs) are widely used to mitigate power-factor degradation by absorbing lagging reactive power. Conventional TCR control schemes use real-time firing-angle calculations, which require intensive computation and make practical real-time implementation difficult, especially under grid frequency variations. To address this issue, this paper proposes a grid-frequency-independent SVC control method based on a synchronous phase carrier technique that directly determines thyristor firing instants without explicit firing-angle calculations. The proposed control strategy uses a carrier signal synchronized with the system phase, enabling real-time TCR operation without relying on nominal grid frequency. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through simulations and hardware experiments. The results show that the proposed method ensures reliable real-time operation and improves the power factor without requiring firing-angle computation. Furthermore, stable performance under grid-frequency variations confirms the robustness of the proposed method. The proposed approach provides a practical and reliable solution for mitigating power-factor degradation in modern power systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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19 pages, 5634 KB  
Article
New Microgrid Architectures for Telecommunication Base Stations in Non-Interconnected Zones: A Colombian Case Study
by Eduardo Gómez-Luna, Mario A. Palacios and Juan C. Vasquez
Energies 2025, 18(20), 5499; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18205499 - 18 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1074
Abstract
This paper proposes a novel microgrid (MG) architecture designed for telecommunication base stations in non-interconnected regions, with the main objective of mitigating mobile service interruptions caused by power outages. This research consists of three key modules: the first module on resources and components, [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a novel microgrid (MG) architecture designed for telecommunication base stations in non-interconnected regions, with the main objective of mitigating mobile service interruptions caused by power outages. This research consists of three key modules: the first module on resources and components, the second module on characterization, and the third module on design and methodology. The first module presents a comprehensive identification and description of the resources and components of the microgrid within the base station; the second module characterizes the topology and specific configurations of the microgrid; and the last module covers a new methodology for the installation of microgrids in geographic areas lacking electrification, which becomes the contribution of this research work. The novelty of this research presents new control architectures, energy management, and system optimization, including technical–economic analysis. The research outcome highlights the economic and social benefits for both local communities and mobile phone service providers. This research aims to establish a guideline on how these factors affect the focus region of this research. With this technological proposal, a continuous and uninterrupted mobile service is achieved, thus improving the quality of service and minimizing the failures induced by electricity in non-interconnected areas. The tests and validation of the system were carried out with Homer Pro software, integrating socioeconomic and environmental factors. The results obtained present a key solution for this type of application, minimizing costs and increasing reliability for users. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 3256 KB  
Article
Temperature Dependence of the New Calibration Infrastructure for Impedance Metrology
by Marian Kampik, Krzysztof Musioł, Ryszard Rybski, Janusz Kaczmarek, Mirosław Kozioł, Maciej Koszarny, Adam Ziółek, Jolanta Jursza and Paweł Zawadzki
Energies 2025, 18(12), 3018; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18123018 - 6 Jun 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1317
Abstract
This paper addresses issues relating to the temperature stability of impedance infrastructure used for the realization of impedance units and the calibration of measuring instruments. A description of the new infrastructure for impedance metrology recently developed in Poland is provided. We present the [...] Read more.
This paper addresses issues relating to the temperature stability of impedance infrastructure used for the realization of impedance units and the calibration of measuring instruments. A description of the new infrastructure for impedance metrology recently developed in Poland is provided. We present the results of measurements of temperature coefficients for four-port resistance standards and two-port capacitors used in the permuting capacitor device. We also report the results of stability tests of the recently developed temperature-controlled capacitance set. The results demonstrate excellent temperature stability for the impedance components and serve as an important source of information for selecting environmental conditions during comparisons and routine calibration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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20 pages, 8580 KB  
Article
Enhancing Fairness and Efficiency in PV Energy Curtailment: The Role of East–West-Facing Bifacial Installations in Radial Distribution Networks
by Francis Maina Itote, Ryuto Shigenobu, Akiko Takahashi, Masakazu Ito and Ghjuvan Antone Faggianelli
Energies 2025, 18(10), 2630; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18102630 - 20 May 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2017
Abstract
Electricity market reforms and decreasing technology costs have propelled residential solar PV growth leading distribution network operators to face operational challenges including reverse power flows and voltage regulation during peak solar generation. Traditional mono-facial south-facing PV systems concentrate production at midday when demand [...] Read more.
Electricity market reforms and decreasing technology costs have propelled residential solar PV growth leading distribution network operators to face operational challenges including reverse power flows and voltage regulation during peak solar generation. Traditional mono-facial south-facing PV systems concentrate production at midday when demand may be low, leading to high curtailment, especially for downstream households. This study proposes vertically installed east–west-facing bifacial PV systems (BiE and BiW), characterized by two energy peaks (morning and evening), which are better aligned with residential demand and alleviate grid constraints. Using load flow simulations, the performance of vertical bifacial configurations was compared against mono-facial systems across PV capacities from 1 to 20 kW. Fairness in curtailment was evaluated at 10 kW using Jain’s fairness index, the Gini index, and the Curtailment index. Simulation results show that BiE and BiW installations, especially at higher capacities, not only generate more energy but also are better at managing curtailment. At 10 kW, BiE and BiW increased bid energies by 815 kWh and 787 kWh, and reduced curtailed energy by 1566 kWh and 1499 kWh, respectively. These findings highlight the potential of bifacial PV installations in mitigating curtailment and improving fairness in energy distribution, supporting the demand for residential PV systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 2824 KB  
Article
Optimization Method for Topology Identification of Port Microgrid Based on Line Disconnection
by Yanmin Wang, Hanqing Zhang, Weiqi Zhang, Xiaoyong Wang and Jiaming Wang
Energies 2025, 18(3), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18030706 - 4 Feb 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1263
Abstract
Regarding the static voltage stability issue of microgrids, by considering the control of line disconnections to enhance the system load margin, an identification and optimization approach for grid topology control measures based on the parameters of disconnected lines is put forward. Linear sensitivity [...] Read more.
Regarding the static voltage stability issue of microgrids, by considering the control of line disconnections to enhance the system load margin, an identification and optimization approach for grid topology control measures based on the parameters of disconnected lines is put forward. Linear sensitivity is employed to scan and filter the measures; nonlinear fitting is utilized for ranking the measures; the leading control measures are calculated to determine the optimal line disconnection control measure. With the real lines and equipment conditions of LEKKI Port in Nigeria as a reference, experiments and simulations are conducted using ETAP and tested in the actual engineering of the port. The results indicate that the optimization method can significantly reduce the time required for load margin calculations in the project, and the effect of the method is similar to that of the traditional continuation power flow (CPFLOW) method. The method is more suitable for the application of online algorithms, which requires speed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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Review

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19 pages, 1642 KB  
Review
Comprehensive Review of Fault Detection and Protection Strategies for Medium-Voltage Networks Supplied by Grid-Forming Inverter Sources
by Muhammad Abdul Rauf, Munira Batool and Imtiaz Madni
Energies 2026, 19(9), 2175; https://doi.org/10.3390/en19092175 - 30 Apr 2026
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Medium-voltage (MV) networks are increasingly relying on grid-forming inverter-based resources (IBRs) due to the worldwide transition towards renewable energy sources. This transformation poses considerable challenges for traditional protection schemes that were initially developed for systems powered by inertia-based generation. Key challenges include the [...] Read more.
Medium-voltage (MV) networks are increasingly relying on grid-forming inverter-based resources (IBRs) due to the worldwide transition towards renewable energy sources. This transformation poses considerable challenges for traditional protection schemes that were initially developed for systems powered by inertia-based generation. Key challenges include the low and controlled contributions of fault current, two-way power flows, diminished system inertia, and swiftly changing transient behaviors. These elements weaken the effectiveness of standard protection methods such as overcurrent, distance, and differential protection schemes. A critical review of recent advancements in adaptive protection schemes, impedance-based techniques, virtual synchronous machines, and enhancements in inverter control is provided. However, despite these advancements, current solutions frequently lack validation in real-world scenarios, encounter difficulties in detecting high-impedance faults, and face scalability issues. There remains a demand for protection strategies that are resilient, coordinated, and specifically designed to address the distinct dynamics of MV systems dominated by grid-forming inverters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Microgrids for the Future of Electrical Grid—2nd Edition)
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