Project: #12
Optimal Energy Transfers in DC/AC Microgrids
The emerging grid is increasingly becoming dependent on power electronics for various conversions. The efficiencies of different converters are operating point dependent. Further, different sources have different economics of operation and the entry of hydrogen has added another interesting dimension to the system.
A typical system operator will have to contend with Solar plant, grid, battery storage and hydrogen generation along with its own economics of storage and usage. It is quite likely that hydrogen could be used to absorb seasonal variations in power produced to find usage for power production in seasons of lean renewable power. This proposal is to construct a typical microgrid model and explore possible optimised strategies of operation. The work will take into account typical converter topologies and their varying efficiencies based on converter losses. Any prototypes developed at Deakin/IITM will be used for calibrating these efficiencies. Suitable electrolyser models would also enable efficiency of hydrogen production. Deakin has a microgrid installed, while IITM is putting one in place. The grid structures can be used to develop suitably detailed models to enable correct estimates in optimisation studies. The study could suggest proper energy management to explore operation for better economics or better carbon footprint, or simply least grid power drawn. The work is expected to give insights into the manner of operating a microgrid in the future hydrogen dominated economy.