A New Method to Energy Saving in a Micro Grid

Sustainability

Andrea Vallati¹  Stefano Grignaffini¹  Marco Romagna¹  Marc A. Rosen²  Francesco Asdrubali² 

[1] Department of Astronautic, Electric and Energetic Engineering, “Sapienza” University of Rome, via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy;

关键词: multi-energy system;    cost of energy;    energy storage;   

DOI  :  10.3390/su71013904

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

Optimization of energy production systems is a relevant issue that must be considered in order to follow the fossil fuels consumption reduction policies and CO₂ emission regulation. Increasing electricity production from renewable resources (e.g., photovoltaic systems and wind farms) is desirable but its unpredictability is a cause of problems for the main grid stability. A system with multiple energy sources represents an efficient solution, by realizing an interface among renewable energy sources, energy storage systems, and conventional power generators. Direct consequences of multi-energy systems are a wider energy flexibility and benefits for the electric grid, the purpose of this paper is to propose the best technology combination for electricity generation from a mix of renewable energy resources to satisfy the electrical needs. The paper identifies the optimal off-grid option and compares this with conventional grid extension, through the use of HOMER software. The solution obtained shows that a hybrid combination of renewable energy generators at an off-grid location can be a cost-effective alternative to grid extension and it is sustainable, techno-economically viable, and environmentally sound. The results show how this innovative energetic approach can provide a cost reduction in power supply and energy fees of 40% and 25%, respectively, and CO₂ emission decrease attained around 18%. Furthermore, the multi-energy system taken as the case study has been optimized through the utilization of three different type of energy storage (Pb-Ac batteries, flywheels, and micro—Compressed Air Energy Storage (C.A.E.S.).

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2015 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.