Micro-grids
Micro-grids are small scale versions of the traditional grid that allow specific local goals to be met. They can be connected to the macro-grid or function independently and typically manage real-time demand, supply and storage of electricity often in a large campus such as a University. A micro-grid can be a well-defined network of physical hardware, generation sources and storage or it can be considered as a local electricity management strategy using existing infrastructure but optimising it to achieve the best local outcome.
Where local generation is available, micro-grids have the potential to improve efficiency by connecting local consumers to decentralised electricity generation (photovoltaic (PV) or other micro- generation technology) and thereby reduce transmission and distribution losses associated with the grid supply. This is particularly applicable where new housing developments are constructed and the appropriate hardware and infrastructure can be installed from new.
In the future, new business models may arise surrounding micro-grids where commercial organisations act as intermediaries and install the necessary hardware to allow a local electricity management strategy to be played out and at the same time negotiate with the electricity supplier on behalf of their consumers.
This article was created by --BRE. It was taken from The future of electricity in domestic buildings, a review, by Andrew Williams, published in November 2014.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- DC isolators for photovoltaic systems (FB 68).
- Electricity supply.
- Feed in Tariff.
- Flexible electrical networks for a low carbon future.
- Glossary of electrical terms.
- Islanded grid.
- Microgeneration certification scheme.
- Mini-grids.
- Solar photovoltaics.
- Smart buildings.
- Smart technology.
- Substation.
- Switchgear.
- The future of electricity in domestic buildings.
- The UK’s low-carbon future is increasingly electric.
Featured articles and news
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.