Integration of microgrids to improve power system performance and grid resilience

Abstract

In Uganda, the electrical infrastructure is growing at a rapid rate, mainly through the construction of new regional interconnectors and rural electrification. Today’s commercially available systems and installations depend largely on the availability of electricity to power their day-to-day operations. This growth is not sustainable without consideration of grid resilience. It is well known that the Ugandan network is in need of improved grid reliability. During periods of adverse weather and peak demand the grid does not cope with the requirements. The value of microgrids to protect the national electric grid from power outages is becoming increasingly important in the face of frequency of outages and shut downs. This project analyses the country’s electricity situation using data from the national electricity regulator, UMEME, UETCL, UEDCL and the kakiira grid. This project presents an analysis of the challenges and opportunities for improvement of grid resiliency and reliability in the country. This flexibility to securely manage the reliability and resilience of the system and connected loads can be achieved through the integration of microgrids and distributed generation. Using matlab Simulink and Digsilent power factory, we modeled and assessed the grid performance under normal operation and utility grid failures for both scenarios of grid-connected and islanded mode operations of the microgrid technology. Comparison of the reliability index values was carried out using Microsoft excel and Our findings validate the feasibility of microgrid technology onto the main grid and their benefit in improving system performance and reliability. This project can be used in a wide range of applications for cost saving, surety and the reliability benefit it may offer to large commercial, industrial, government and private players.