Efficient Energy Management in Smart Micro-Grids: ZERO Grid Impact Buildings

In a smart micro-grid (MG) each generator or load has to take part in the network management, joining in reactive power supply/voltage control, active power supply/frequency control, fault ride-through capability, and power quality control. This paper includes a new concept for building integration in MGs with zero grid-impact so improving the MG efficiency. These aims are shown to be achievable with an intelligent system, based on a dc/ac converter connected to the building point of coupling with the main grid. This system can provide active and reactive power services also including a dc link where storage, generation, and loads can be installed. The system employed for validation is a prototype available at ENEA Laboratories (Italian National Agency for New Technologies). A complete and versatile model in MATLAB/SIMULINK is also presented. The simulations results and the experimental test validation are included. The trial confirms the model goodness and the system usefulness in MG applications.