A technical and economical study of implementing a micro-grid system at an educational institution

Micro-grids are among the basic components in the future distributed generation smart grid systems. The transmission efficiency improvements and the utilization of renewable energy sources are some of the key advantages of using micro-grids in power systems. In this paper, the technical and economical study of implementing a micro-grid system at an educational institution is discussed and presented. Multiple types of distributed generators were considered including gas-fired generator units, solar photovoltaic, fuel cell, and bio-power systems. Several simulations were conducted using HOMER and a detailed economic analysis of implementing a micro-grid system is presented including recommended actions.