Microgrid modeling to support the design processes

Summary form only given. Microgrids are a key Smart Grid technology that can be leveraged for improved energy security, efficiency, and reliability. However, their design is not straightforward, particularly in the case of military applications. The US Departments of Defense and Energy are working together to develop a design process for Energy Surety Microgrids (ESM) that will provide a transformative capability for military installations converting to microgrids for backup power and site energy management. The new project, called the Smart Power Infrastructure Demonstration for Energy Reliability and Security (SPIDERS), will field ESMs at three bases. Each site will show an increasing level of application complexity, with design decisions supported by modeling and simulation. The ESM design methodology incorporates output from four models: the Consequence model, Performance/Reliability model, load flow, and dynamic grid model. With respect to energy asset portfolios, the output from the Consequence model is used to move the design toward perceived effective solutions, while the Performance/Reliability model quantifies the expected microgrid improvements and optimizes performance. The load flow model tracks voltage and line flows for acceptable ranges, and the grid dynamic model analyzes start-up and operating transients for voltage and frequency performance. Combined, these models support an integrated and effective design process.