An Integrated Framework for Smart Microgrids Modeling, Monitoring, Control, Communication, and Verification

• Published in: Proceedings of the IEEE Vol. 99; no. 1; pp. 119 - 132
• Main Authors: Vaccaro, Alfredo, Popov, Marjan, Villacci, Domenico, Terzija, Vladimir
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York IEEE 01.01.2011; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE)
• Subjects: Communication; Distributed energy resources; Energy management; Energy resources; information and communication technologies (ICT); microgrids management; Monitoring; Power systems management; Service oriented architecture; Smart grids; Voltage control
• ISSN: 0018-9219; 1558-2256
• DOI: 10.1109/JPROC.2010.2081651

The microgrid (MG) paradigm is a new concept which is considered as a solution for addressing technical, economical, and environmental issues of modern power systems. The application of MG is the subject of extensive studies and experimental tests. It is recognized that there are a number of technical challenges concerning the operation, monitoring, control, and protection of MGs systems. In this respect, the rapid development of the information and communication technologies (ICTs) has opened the door for feasible and cost-effective solutions allowing more extensive intra- and interutility information exchange, diffusion, and open access to a wide range of real-time information. Consequently, the ICTs could represent a strategic tool in supporting effective MG operation. According to this statement, the paper proposes an advanced framework based on the service-oriented architectures for integrated MG modeling, monitoring, and control. The proposed framework is platform, language, and vendor independent, and thus it is an ideal candidate for an effective integration in existing energy management systems and distribution management systems (EMSs/DMSs).