Design considerations for rural modular microgrids

This paper proposes a possible architecture for scalable modular microgrids, with high levels of renewable energy penetration. The proposed architecture is intended for deep rural applications with no utility grid and possibly in peri-urban regions with a supply deficit. The fundamental requirements for the microgrid are that it needs to be as simple, robust and maintenance-free as possible, to survive the far-rural and tough conditions of Africa; and provide power, of suitable quality, to the most basic of domestic loads, typically found in such an environment.