Advanced Research Projects

Microgrid-distributed architecture using modular multiple-input dc-dc converters

Alexis Kwasinski with adviser Philip T. Krein

Figure 28 A microgrid-based telecom power plant with a modular distributed architecture.

A microgrid is an independently controlled portion of an electrical grid. It comprises its own power sources, energy storage devices, and loads and is usually interconnected with a larger grid. A microgrid can achieve improved local reliability and high efficiency relative to the complete power grid. It also provides uninterruptible power supply functions. These characteristics make a microgridbased system especially suitable for telecom power systems.

This work explores a microgrid-based telecom power plant with a modular distributed architecture. The current study determines in a systematic way the most suitable configuration of a microgrid-based telecom power system and establishes a basis for optimal design by comparing alternative configurations using a value function that considers the power plant’s main characteristics. These are cost, availability, flexibility, technological developmeng, potential for industry synergies, and other extra advantages such as survivability in natural disasters. The analysis also treats system stability characteristics and suitable control strategies. A prototype of the circuit shown in Figure 28 is in an early stage of development.

2005-2006 Projects

• Magnetic Equivalent Circuits Applied to Induction Machine Design
• Mathematical Field Computation as an Analytical Tool for Electric Machines
• An Extended Field Reconstruction Technique for Optimization of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine Drive Systems
• A Framework for the Analysis and Design of Vector Controllers for Induction Machines
• Hand-Cranked Electric Generator to Poper Remote Off-Grid Villages