Microgrid household photovoltaic grid connection

What happens if a microgrid is grid-connected?

If the microgrid is grid-connected (i.e., connected to the main electric grid), then the community can draw power from the main electric grid to supplement its own generation as needed or sell power back to the main electric grid when it is generating excess power.

Why does residential rooftop solar need a microgrid?

To understand why residential rooftop solar demands a microgrid, you need a bit of background on the electricity distribution grid, how the flow of power on it is managed, the importance of the quality of that power, and how today’s residential solar works. Let’s start with the grid.

Is a solar photovoltaic system a small microgrid?

While pairing a solar photovoltaic system with energy storage to support a single building (behind the utility meter) may be considered a small microgrid by some, for the purposes of this document we use “microgrid” to refer to more complex systems that connect multiple buildings or facilities.

How can a microgrid ensure continuous electricity?

Two ways to ensure continuous electricity regardless of the weather or an unforeseen event are by using distributed energy resources (DER) and microgrids. DER produce and supply electricity on a small scale and are spread out over a wide area. Rooftop solar panels, backup batteries, and emergency diesel generators are examples of DER.

Why are homeowners interested in microgrids?

“Across the country, homeowners are increasingly interested in microgrids due to a combination of factors that include rising energy costs, concerns about grid reliability, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility,” he added.

Should a single-family home have a microgrid?

“A microgrid for a single-family home typically includes solar panels, backup battery storage, inverters, and possibly a generator for additional resilience,” explained Troy Dunnington, a smart energy and lighting design consultant in San Diego.