Microgrids Imitate Nature for Improved Performance—Use of Nature-Inspired Optimization Techniques in Future Power Systems

There is a constant push towards increasing use of renewable energy-based distributed generators around the globe. While they provide clean and sustainable source energy, employ technologies that are unknown to traditional power systems. These interfaced via inverters lack inertia large synchronous machines. This manifests itself as more volatile frequency profile susceptible disturbances. phenomenon amplified in stand-alone microgrids which utilized popular electrification alternative isolated or underserved communities. One solution approach takes its inspiration from nature, e.g., behavior bees, butterflies, ants. When employed suitable way, animals’ natural helps optimize interaction between different renewable-energy based create stable microgrid. approaches stabilizing such systems with novel optimization approaches. Some them ratio utilize rotating machines inverters. Penetration energy generation about share inverter-interfaced system without causing stability issues. Since resources intermittent not dispatchable, it important diverse portfolio where overall achieves some stability. For instance, if local grid fed by PV panels, wind small-scale hydroelectric plant, varying nature these may complement each other. On sunny day, output might be very high, so significant. other hand, on rainy clouds reduce while precipitation feed hydro plant. Similarly, others windy day. idea easy comprehend qualitatively, finding correct trivial. Furthermore, there many factors at play independently changing impacting outcome. sites, available resources, their profiles well load conditions would different. Therefore, systematic required planning, operation control levels. Nature-inspired algorithms seem have an edge doing just that.