Hybrid Microgrids – Mushrooming in India

We have already written about the importance of microgrids in India. Power fluctuations, blackouts, and even inaccessibility to the power grid are some of the major reasons that led to the popularity of microgrids in India. The rising war cry against traditional sources of power like coal, fuel, nuclear, etc. has further pressurized the means of generation and transmission of power in a huge country like India.

Advantages of Hybrid Microgrids

Rising awareness about using clean, green, and cheap power sources like wind and solar has further popularized the concept of hybrid microgrids in many developing nations including India. A hybrid microgrid not only uses more of cleaner power sources in its mix but also adds the benefits of reliability, stability, and lower costs for users. Hybrid microgrids have been touted as the future of power generation given their characteristics of being eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Components of Hybrid Microgrids

Hybrid microgrids generally combine solar, wind, batteries, generators, and any other power source. However, the main challenge for Solar and Wind is intermittency. Hence using Energy Storage makes perfect sense. Genset is also a reliable electricity source in case of any emergency. Nearly all microgrids in India run on power from solar panels, solar-hydropower, or solar-biomass mix. It is more of a local means of producing electricity. It can operate either independently or in synchronization with the power grid. Today’s systems are more advanced and allow for remote monitoring of the system to check their effective functioning.

Conclusion

Microgrids are more beneficial in areas or territories with insufficient power supply, and to build a local, affordable, and reliable energy supply, making them a perfect choice for remote rural areas. The integration of local renewable energy production and energy storage helps to reduce reliance on the national grid and curb the possible outcomes of power outages. There is a huge demand for the power given the rising population and their power needs. For decades, countries have relied on traditional sources of power for their electricity needs. However, this scenario is going to change sooner than we think given the benefits and falling cost of decentralized technologies.