The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela has announced a significant advancement in energy technology with the introduction of an intelligent hybrid microgrid system. This innovative solution aims to provide reliable power to remote areas lacking access to the primary electrical grid while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.
The newly developed control system is capable of autonomously managing electricity generated from various sources, including solar, wind, and batteries. This hybrid microgrid can deliver a consistent and clean power supply to rural communities. The research findings are detailed in the journal IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications and were co-authored by Prof. Arnab Ghosh, Prof. Krishna Roy, and research scholar Ms. Ananya Pritilagna Biswal.
The primary goal of this initiative is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and extend electricity access to underserved regions. This research also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those aimed at ensuring clean and affordable energy, promoting climate action, and fostering sustainable communities.
Hybrid microgrids, which combine renewable energy sources like solar and wind with energy storage solutions, are currently a focus of global research. However, integrating these diverse energy sources can be challenging due to their variable nature, which often leads to supply instability and interruptions. To tackle this challenge, the NIT Rourkela team has created a dynamic Power Management Scheme (PMS) that facilitates seamless coordination among all energy producers and storage devices.
This advanced control technique allows for safe and efficient energy storage in batteries, enhancing their capacity and lifespan while reducing overall costs. By automatically switching energy sources according to availability—such as solar power during the day and wind, biomass gasification, or pico hydropower at other times—the system maintains a balanced power flow across different loads.
This unique multi-source converter-based hybrid setup is largely absent in current markets, offering a viable solution for the energy needs of remote communities. It is capable of generating approximately 10 kWh of reliable energy, which is sufficient to meet the needs of four households in rural areas.
The researchers have validated the functionality of their microgrid system under various real-world conditions, including fluctuations in solar radiation, wind speeds, and electrical demand. In addition to its application in microgrids, this system shows promise for use in electric vehicle charging stations and standalone renewable energy systems.
Decentralized power generation systems that enhance the distribution of renewable energy across the nation contribute significantly to NIT Rourkela”s mission. This approach brings the institute closer to achieving its goal of providing dependable green energy access for all households, particularly those situated in rural and off-grid regions.
