Part of Grid Network »

The Grid Professionals Group covers electric current from its transmission step down to each customer's home. 

Post

How to utilize machine learning in Microgrids

image credit: CleanTechnica
Volkmar Kunerth's picture
CEO AND CONSULTANT, Accentec Technologies LLC

https://www.linkedin.com/in/volkmarkunerth Volkmar Kunerth is a German-American entrepreneur  and technology expert, known for his contributions to the development of smart grid technology and...

  • Member since 2021
  • 12 items added with 2,835 views
  • Feb 24, 2023
  • 287 views

Microgrids are small-scale power systems that can operate independently or in coordination with the larger power grid. These systems are becoming increasingly popular because they offer several benefits, including increased reliability, improved energy efficiency, and the potential for renewable energy integration. Machine learning can be used in microgrids to improve their performance and efficiency.

Here are some ways to use machine learning in microgrids:

  1. Load forecasting:

    Load forecasting is a method used to predict the amount of electricity or energy that will be consumed by a particular power system, grid or network over a specified period of time, typically ranging from a few hours to several years in advance. This is important for utilities and energy providers as it allows them to plan for future demand and ensure that they have the necessary resources and infrastructure in place to meet that demand.

    Load forecasting is typically done using historical data, weather forecasts, and other factors that may influence energy consumption, such as holidays or special events. The process can be done using a variety of techniques, including statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and other computational methods. The accuracy of load forecasting can be affected by many factors, including the availability and quality of data, the complexity of the power system, and the level of uncertainty associated with future events and changes in demand patterns.

    Machine learning algorithms can be used to predict the future demand for electricity in a microgrid. This information can be used to optimize the use of renewable energy sources and to reduce the cost of purchasing electricity from the larger power grid.

  2. Energy management: Energy management in microgrids is the process of controlling and optimizing the production, distribution, and consumption of energy within a local, decentralized network of power generation and storage resources. Microgrids are small-scale power systems that can operate independently of the larger grid, using a combination of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, and traditional energy sources, such as diesel generators. Machine learning algorithms can be used to optimize the use of energy storage systems in a microgrid. These algorithms can balance the energy stored in batteries and other storage devices with the energy produced by renewable sources and the demand for electricity from the microgrid.

  3. Fault detection and diagnosis: Machine learning algorithms can be used to detect and diagnose faults in a microgrid. This information can be used to prevent system failures and to reduce downtime.

  4. Demand response:  Machine learning algorithms can be used to predict the response of customers to changes in electricity prices. This information can be used to incentivize customers to reduce their electricity consumption during peak demand periods.Demand response is a strategy used in microgrids to manage and reduce energy consumption during peak demand periods, when the grid is under stress and energy prices are high. In demand response, energy users are incentivized to reduce their energy consumption during these peak periods by temporarily reducing their energy use or shifting it to other times of the day.

  5. Renewable energy integration: Machine learning algorithms can be used to optimize the integration of renewable energy sources in a microgrid. These algorithms can balance the production of energy from renewable sources with the demand for electricity in the microgrid.

The use of machine learning in microgrids can lead to increased efficiency, improved reliability, and cost savings. However, it is important to ensure that the machine learning algorithms are properly trained and validated to ensure that they provide accurate and reliable results.

Discussions
Matt Chester's picture
Matt Chester on Feb 24, 2023

I feel like we've only just seen the tip of the iceberg, so many exciting opportunities ahead!

Volkmar Kunerth's picture
Volkmar Kunerth on Feb 24, 2023

There are a lot of things happening. Check out companies like Heila Technologies....

Volkmar Kunerth's picture
Thank Volkmar for the Post!
Energy Central contributors share their experience and insights for the benefit of other Members (like you). Please show them your appreciation by leaving a comment, 'liking' this post, or following this Member.
More posts from this member

Get Published - Build a Following

The Energy Central Power Industry Network® is based on one core idea - power industry professionals helping each other and advancing the industry by sharing and learning from each other.

If you have an experience or insight to share or have learned something from a conference or seminar, your peers and colleagues on Energy Central want to hear about it. It's also easy to share a link to an article you've liked or an industry resource that you think would be helpful.

                 Learn more about posting on Energy Central »