Special Issue on Microgrids/Nanogrids Implementation, Planning, and Operation

Abstract

Today's power system faces the challenges of environmental protection, increasing global demand for electricity, high-reliability requirements, clean energy, and planning restrictions. To move towards a green and smart electric power system, centralized generation facilities are being transformed into smaller and more distributed generations. As a result, the microgrid concept is emerging, where a microgrid can operate as a single controllable system and can be viewed as a group of distributed energy loads and resources, which can include many renewable energy sources and energy storage systems. Energy management of a large number of distributed energy resources is required for the reliable operation of the microgrid. Microgrids can allow better integration of distributed energy storage capacity and renewable energy sources into the power grid, therefore, increasing its efficiency and resilience to natural and man-caused disruptive events. In addition, microgrids and nanogrids are potential solutions for providing a better electrical service for both insufficiently supplied and remote areas. Microgrids networking with optimal energy management will lead to a sort of smart grid with numerous benefits such as reduced cost and enhanced reliability and resiliency [1]. As microgrids, nanogrids are an effective solution to promote renewable energy consumption and build a low-carbon and environmentally friendly power grid. They include small-scale renewable energy harvesters and fixed energy storage units typically installed in commercial and residential buildings. In this challenging context, the objective of this special session is to address and disseminate state-of-the-art research and development results on the implementation, planning, and operation of microgrids/nanogrids, where energy management is one of the core issues.