Microgrid systems are made up of many different components: energy generation, storage, load demand, distribution, control and management.
Design, planning and integration of all elements is complex.
A lot of careful planning, technical expertise and coordination between stakeholders is required to ensure all the elements work together and this can unfortunately cause lengthy timelines and high costs.
Cost of infrastructure can also be a hurdle that’s not easily overcome, particularly in remote locations, and running and maintenance costs may also be prohibitive.
And size does matter. Microgrids are designed for specific small-scale settings.
If demand on that particular microgrid increases dramatically the whole system needs to be increased. However, scaling up a microgrid is not easy, and this complexity may even make it impractical in some situations.
Difficulties may be presented to small or remote communities where skilled technicians and general maintenance providers are limited or not available. The cost of bringing in such labour requirements may be a financial burden on these communities or even prohibitive. Upskilled labour resources may move from the area, presenting further issues around maintening an appropriate labour force.
DEUTZ Australia is dedicated to delivering dependable support and aid, even in remote locations, in the event of any problems with our microgrid systems. Our team of skilled professionals, along with technicians from authorised dealers, are fully prepared to address a range of challenges and guarantee the seamless functioning of your microgrid
Operating in parallel with the main grid requires synchronization and coordination. Importing and exporting energy between a microgrid and the main grid is not always as easy.
In fact, integration of the two systems can be challenging when trying to ensure all the elements function together smoothly.
Stability of voltage and frequency must be maintained, the flow of electricity must be controlled efficiently and disruptions from the main grid must be minimised as well as managed.
The uncertainty of renewable and sustainable energy sources adds to these challenges. Wind does not always flow, and turbines break down. Solar energy cannot be generated at night or if there is cloud coverage. Hydro power cannot be generated if there is a drought. However, each of our microgrid system is backed up by a compatible DEUTZ diesel genset to provide uninterrupted power supply when power generated from renewable energy is not sufficient.
Microgrid systems, however, by their very existence provide the opportunity to meet these challenges by learning from the systems in real time and in real situations. Whilst still in early the stages, utilising renewable energy sources is undoubtedly the way of the future.