What is a Microgrid?

A microgrid is a discrete energy system consisting of distributed energy sources (including demand management, storage, and generation) and loads capable of operating in parallel with, or independently from, the main power grid. The primary purpose is to ensure local, reliable, and affordable energy security for urban and rural communities, while also providing solutions for commercial, industrial, and federal government consumers. Benefits that extend to utilities and the community at large include lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and lowering stress on the transmission and distribution system.



In many respects, microgrids are smaller versions of  the traditional power grid. Like current electrical grids, they consist of power generation, distribution, and controls such as voltage regulation and switch gears. However, microgrids differ from traditional electrical grids by providing a closer proximity between power generation and power use, resulting in efficiency increases and transmission reductions. Microgrids also integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar, wind power, small hydro, geothermal, waste-to-energy, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems.

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Microgrids perform dynamic control over energy sources, enabling autonomous and automatic self-healing operations. During normal or peak usage, or at times of the primary power grid failure, a microgrid can operate independently of the larger grid and isolate it’s generation nodes and power loads from disturbance without affecting the larger grid's integrity.  Microgrids interoperate with existing power systems, information systems, and network infrastructure, and are  capable of feeding power back to the larger grid during times of grid failure or power outages.