Building a microgrid takes several stages, from specifying the detailed requirements for the energy storage components to designing the solar farm and flywheel.
Defining Microgrid Design Requirements and Energy Storage Needs
Some of the initial steps were to understand the detailed requirements of the features and components, like energy storage and ride-through power in conjunction with a rooftop solar farm. Next, we identified the technology pieces:
- Bifacial panels for the solar farm
- A vanadium redox flow battery for energy storage
- A flywheel for ride-through power
These technologies would ultimately interface with G&W Electric’s medium-voltage distribution components, including switchgear and protective devices that help support safe and reliable operation.
We went through engineering studies for the installation locations to ensure they could sustain the weights and properly integrate with G&W Electric’s MV equipment. Also, we undertook extensive design research for the flywheel and energy storage foundations. They weigh over 50 tons and 110 tons, respectively, and must withstand the 25-year life span.
Integrating Microgrid Components for a Reliable Distribution System
We designed a medium voltage loop employing magnetically operated switchgear, miles of medium voltage cable, arrestors, and rubber goods (such as elbows).
In addition, we needed a connection between the controls. Given the localized area of the system, the most suitable communication medium is fiber optic cable. This communication ties into G&W Electric’s automation hardware, which coordinates switching operations and enhances system responsiveness. We went through tunneling and placed the conduits underground before running the cables (medium-voltage and fiber).
Commissioning Components and Validating System Reliability
Once the components become a system, it requires the commissioning of each piece and performing a system test. This process involves a collaboration between multiple parties – the cooperation of the local utility, the contractor managing the installation, the vendors of the components, and, of course, G&W Electric’s automation engineering team and their maintenance team.
FAQs – Microgrid Design & Distributed Energy Resources
What role do microgrid components play in improving system reliability?
Microgrid components, such as medium-voltage switchgear, protection equipment, control systems, and energy storage systems, work together to maintain reliable power flow and support distributed energy resources without requiring a full turnkey microgrid solution.
How does energy storage technology support microgrid design?
Energy storage technology, including battery energy storage systems and flywheel ride-through solutions, helps stabilize energy supply and enables smoother transitions between distributed energy resources. These systems must work seamlessly with medium-voltage distribution equipment to ensure safe operation.
Does G&W Electric provide complete microgrid design or installation services?
No. G&W Electric does not provide full microgrid design or installation. Instead, the company supplies critical medium-voltage components, control systems, and protective equipment that support microgrid designers, utilities, and engineers developing smart power infrastructure projects.
How do energy storage systems help reduce energy costs in microgrid environments?
Energy storage systems can store excess energy from distributed sources like solar panels and release it during peak demand, helping reduce energy costs. G&W Electric’s distribution equipment supports the safe and efficient integration of these systems within the larger electrical network.
How do control systems enhance the performance of distributed energy resources?
Control systems coordinate switching operations, manage distributed energy resources, and maintain stable energy supply. G&W Electric’s automation and control solutions are designed to improve system responsiveness without implying full microgrid control implementation services.
How does microgrid energy storage support the components used in this project?
Microgrid energy storage helps maintain stable operation by supporting the solar panels, flywheel system, and other distributed resources used in this project. While G&W Electric does not provide the energy storage assets themselves, our medium-voltage switchgear, protection devices, and automation controls help these technologies operate safely within the overall microgrid configuration.
