Impact of Microgrids on Environmental

Sustainability and Sustainable Development

A Research report submitted
TO
Dr. Ghulam Farid
BY

May 30, 2023

 Abstract

A small scale system and located near the consumer is called the Micro-Grid (MG) system.
The interconnection of small generation to low voltage distribution systems can be termed
as the Micro Grid. Micro Grids can be operated with and without a connection to the main
power network
Micro-Grid(MG) is basically a low voltage (LV) or medium voltage (MV) distribution net-
work which consists of a cluster of micro-sources such as photo-voltaic array, fuel cell, wind
turbine etc. called distributed generators (DG’s); energy storage systems and loads; oper-
ating as a single controllable system, able to operate in both grid-connected and islanded
mode. In a micro-grid the DG’s has sufficient capacity to carry all, or most of the load
connected to the micro-grid.

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Contents

1 Introduction 3

2 Methodology 4
2.1 environment sustainability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1.1 Integration of Renewable Energy: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1.3 Grid Resilience and Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.1.4 Demand Response and Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1.5 Reduction of Transmission Losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1.6 Support for Electric Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1.7 Community Engagement and Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.1.8 Energy Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2 Microgrids. the impact of microgrids on environment sustainability. . . . . 6
2.2.1 MicroGrid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2.2 Microgrid Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3 Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4 Clasification of Microgrid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4.1 Based on Operation Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.4.2 Based on Distribution System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.5 Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.6 Environment-sustainable solutions Reduce the impact of electric machines
on environment? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

3 Conclusion 11
3.1 Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.2 Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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Chapter 1

Introduction

Micro grid is a small scale power grid that can operate independently . A small network
of electricity users with a local source of supply that is usually attached to a centralized
national grid but is able to function independently. Any small scale localized power station
that has that has own own generation and storage resources can be considered as micro-
grid.Micro are typically supported by generators or renewable wind and solar energy sources
and are often used to provide backup power or supplement the main power grid during pe-
riod of heavy demand, Microgrid is a local energy grid with control capability which means
it can disconnect from the traditional grid and operate autonomously.
The sharing in electricity generation at global scale is accomplished through an increase
in renewable sources. Microgrids are local power systems of different size, operating inside
the distribution systems. Due to their ability to: (a) reduce environmental impact, reduce
investment in power plant construction, equipment and cost, (b) increasing energy stable
efficiency, (c) ride-through capability provided by energy storage. Microgrids can be de-
signed through (dc) or (ac) which with multiconverter devices are intrinsically potential for
the future energy systems in accomplishing reliability, efficiency, and quality power supply.

Figure 1:Block Diagram

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Chapter 2

Methodology

2.1 environment sustainability.

Microgrids play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability. Here are some
ways in which microgrids contribute to environmental sustainability:

2.1.1 Integration of Renewable Energy:

Microgrids often incorporate renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power.
By generating clean energy locally, microgrids reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and decrease
greenhouse gas emissions. This contributes to mitigating climate change and improving air
quality.

2.1.2 Energy Efficiency

Microgrids enable better energy efficiency by optimizing energy generation, distribution,
and consumption at a local level. They employ advanced control systems and smart grid
technologies to balance energy supply and demand, reducing wastage and improving over-
all energy efficiency. This helps in conserving resources and reducing environmental impact.

2.1.3 Grid Resilience and Reliability

Microgrids enhance the resilience and reliability of energy systems. They can operate in-
dependently or in coordination with the main grid, ensuring uninterrupted power supply
during disruptions or outages. By minimizing downtime and supporting reliable power sup-
ply, microgrids contribute to sustainable development and enhance community resilience.

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2.1.4 Demand Response and Load Management
Microgrids facilitate demand response programs and load management strategies. They
enable the monitoring and control of energy consumption, allowing for adjustments during
peak demand periods. This helps to optimize energy usage, reduce strain on the grid, and
avoid the need for additional fossil fuel-based power generation.

2.1.5 Reduction of Transmission Losses

Microgrids generate electricity closer to the point of consumption, reducing the need for
long-distance transmission of power. This helps in minimizing transmission and distribution
losses that occur in traditional grid systems. By reducing energy losses during transmis-
sion, microgrids improve overall energy efficiency and promote environmental sustainability.

2.1.6 Support for Electric Vehicles

Microgrids can facilitate the integration of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. By pro-
viding localized power supply for EV charging stations, microgrids promote the adoption
of electric vehicles, which helps to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered transportation and
decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

2.1.7 Community Engagement and Education

Microgrids often involve local communities in their planning and implementation. This fos-
ters community engagement, awareness, and education about sustainable energy practices.
It encourages individuals to adopt energy-saving behaviors, supports the transition to clean
energy, and promotes environmental stewardship.

2.1.8 Energy Storage

Microgrids can incorporate energy storage technologies, such as batteries, to store excess
energy for later use. This allows for better utilization of intermittent renewable energy
sources and enhances the stability and reliability of the grid. Energy storage integration
enables a smoother integration of renewables and supports the efficient management of en-
ergy resources.
By combining these elements, microgrids contribute to environmental sustainability by pro-
moting renewable energy adoption, improving energy efficiency, enhancing grid resilience,
reducing transmission losses, supporting electric vehicles, and fostering community engage-
ment and education. They serve as a sustainable and efficient energy solution that can help

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reduce environmental impact and support the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable
energy future.

2.2 Microgrids. the impact of microgrids on environment

sustainability.
2.2.1 MicroGrid
A microgrid is a localized energy system that operates independently or in conjunction
with the main electrical grid. It consists of a combination of power sources, energy storage
systems, and advanced control technologies to generate, distribute, and manage electricity
within a specific geographic area.
Microgrids can incorporate a variety of power sources, including renewable energy systems
such as solar panels, wind turbines, and small-scale hydroelectric generators. These clean
energy sources are often preferred due to their environmental benefits and sustainability.
Additionally, microgrids can include conventional generators, such as diesel or natural gas,
for backup power or to meet peak demand.
microgrids are localized energy systems that combine various power sources, energy storage
systems, and advanced control technologies to generate, distribute, and manage electricity.
They offer increased resilience, reliability, and energy efficiency while promoting the inte-
gration of renewable energy sources.
Microgrids can also help to promote energy democracy by providing communities with
greater control over their energy supply. By promoting the development of local energy
markets and enabling the integration of renewable energy sources, microgrids can help to
reduce the influence of large energy companies and promote greater energy independence.
In addition, microgrids can help to promote energy equity by providing access to clean
and affordable energy to underserved communities. By promoting the use of renewable
energy sources and reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, microgrids can help to reduce
the impact of energy generation on low-income communities and communities of color,
which are often disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and climate change.
Microgrids can also help to promote climate resilience by providing a more reliable and
secure energy supply in the face of extreme weather events and other climate-related risks.
By improving energy efficiency and promoting renewable energy sources, microgrids can help
to reduce the impact of energy generation on the environment and promote the transition
to a low-carbon economy. Overall, microgrids can have a wide range of social, economic,
and environmental benefits, making them an important tool for promoting sustainable
development, reducing the impact of energy generation on the environment, and promoting
greater energy democracy and equity

2.2.2 Microgrid Types

Microgrids can be categorized into different groups as shown in Figure

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2.3 Diagram

Figure 2

2.4 Clasification of Microgrid

1: Based on Operation Modes
2:Based on Distribution System

2.4.1 Based on Operation Modes

The operating modes of microgrids are known grid-connected, transited, or island, and
reconnection modes, which allow a microgrid to increase the reliability of energy supplies
by disconnecting from the grid in the case of network failure or reduced power quality. In
the islanded (standalone) operating state, the microgrid must maintain the reactive power
balance independently due to the nonexistence of an infinite bus. There are two main
challenges in islanded mode: (a) maintenance of appropriate magnitude and frequency of
voltage and (b) maintenance of power balance in the microgrid.

2.4.2 Based on Distribution System

In terms of power, the microgrid is classified as an AC power system, a DC power system,
or a hybrid system

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2.5 Diagram

Figure 3 [DC Microgrid]

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 Figure 4 [AC Microgrid]

2.6 Environment-sustainable solutions Reduce the impact of

electric machines on environment?
Industries, the power machine manufacturing industry is a polluter. It can be considered
without doubt that environmental pollution starts from the stage of exploitation of miner-
als from which metals are extracted from which components are manufactured (Al, Cu, Fe,
etc.). Contamination continues throughout the life of the machine, through: heat genera-
tion, generation of external magnetic fields, noise, vibration, release of volatile substances
in electrical materials, loss of lubricants in service. When the coupling strength of electrical
machines is high, the values of these parameters are high.

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The direction to reduce the environmental impact of electrical machines is to minimize the
residual heat loss. It is clear that the environmental impact depends on the type of conver-
sion used, the construction and the size of the machine. Therefore, one solution to reduce
the impact of heat on the environment is to recover and reuse the heat. However, this can
only be achieved for large machines (either motors or generators).
For new electrical machines, solutions need to be found from the project stage: increas-
ing electrical efficiency (by using new materials), insuring easy dismantling, simplifying the
construction method.
For machines that are already in production, the environmental impact can be reduced
through a reasonable maintenance plan and by finding overhauling solutions that eliminate
and replace defective parts. In comparison, less resources and less energy are required. For
a certain type of motors, which have a single demountable bearing shield.
1:One possible solution to lessen the impact of electric machines on the environment is to
promote the use of renewable energy sources for electricity generation. By promoting the
use of solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable energy sources, we can reduce the reliance
on fossil fuels and reduce the environmental impact of electricity generation.
2:In addition, we can promote the use of electric machines that are designed for reuse and
recycling. By designing electric machines with recyclable materials and promoting the reuse
of components and parts, we can reduce the environmental impact of electric machines and
reduce waste.
3:Even their scrapping causes problems because of their breakup components, because sort-
ing of materials and their reintroduction into the circuit, resulting in polluting operations.
4:It is therefore very important to move to a new type of electric machine design, in addition
to efficiency calculations also provide new design solutions (for example machines without
notches, which, in case of dismantling, the materials are recovered and easily separated) to
reduce environmental impact.
5:Among the ways to reduce the impact on the environment we can include: the proper
and efficient operation and maintenance of electrical machines in use.

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Chapter 3

Conclusion

3.1 Conclusion
In conclusion, microgrids play a crucial role in advancing environmental sustainability and
supporting sustainable development. Their impact on the environment is significant and
multifaceted. Microgrids facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, promote
energy efficiency, enhance grid resilience and reliability, reduce transmission losses, and
support the adoption of electric vehicles. By generating and managing electricity locally,
microgrids contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the mitigation of cli-
mate change, and the conservation of natural resources. Additionally, microgrids engage
local communities, foster awareness, and empower individuals to adopt sustainable energy
practices. Overall, microgrids are a key enabler of a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable
energy future.

3.2 Reference
1:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/2050-7038.12885
2:http://article.sapub.org/10.5923.j.eee.20110102.09.html
3:Abinash Singh, Balwinder Singh Surjan, “MICROGRID: A REVIEW”, International
Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology, Feb-2014.

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