PnP-MEDER: A plug-and-play P2P modular DC microgrid solution for rural areas

• Main Authors: Casimiro, Angelo S., Closa, Lois Raniel D., Sanchez, Juan Miguel A., Yao, Pierre Randell S.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2023
• Subjects: Microgrids (Smart power grids); Electric power distribution; Electrical and Electronics
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etdb_ece/28; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/etdb_ece/article/1038/viewcontent/PnP_MEDER_2_A_Plug_And_Play_P2P_Modular_DC_Microgrid_Solution_For.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

The study focuses on addressing the challenge of providing electricity to rural areas by developing a plug-and-play remote DC microgrid system called PnP-MEDER. The system incorporates modular components that can be easily configured to meet various electrification needs. Unlike existing microgrid solutions, PnP-MEDER allows individuals to join a peer-to-peer microgrid pool, enhancing affordability and system reconfiguration based on specific requirements. The study highlights the advantages of the PnP-MEDER system. In a single producer multiple consumer scenario, dynamic energy cap allocation enables better utilization of distributed energy resources (DERs) by adapting to changing energy demands. The system also facilitates energy monitoring and selective disconnection of consumers for fair distribution and billing purposes. In a multiple prosumer multiple consumer scenario, individuals can equip their DERs with PnP-MEDER controllers, enabling them to actively participate in a prosumer-based microgrid community. Prosumers can request electricity from fellow prosumers during energy shortages. For those unable to be prosumers, a more affordable consumer configuration allows them to purchase electricity from nearby prosumers or producers. The PnP-MEDER system consists of modules such as power converters, smart control and communication pods, and power/energy measurement and cutoff modules. These modules can be combined in different configurations to suit the needs and scale of the system, providing cost-effective solutions for different user types (prosumers, producers, and consumers). The PnP-MEDER system offers an efficient and affordable solution for rural electrification. Its modular design, energy-sharing capabilities, and adaptability to diverse electrification scenarios make it a valuable tool for rural areas. By empowering individuals to participate in microgrid communities and optimizing DER utilization, the PnP-MEDER system has the potential to drive sustainable development and improve energy access in rural regions.