Framing Microgrid Design from a Business and Information Systems Engineering Perspective

Abstract

Microgrids are decentralized distribution networks that integrate distributed energy resources and balance energy generation and loads locally. The introduction of microgrids can help overcome the challenges of global energy systems. Despite this potential, the information systems domain has seen limited research on microgrids. This paper synthesizes research on elements of microgrids for electric energy. Interviewed experts maintain that technological microgrid solutions have been solidly developed; nevertheless, the lack of economic and business consideration is stalling their deployment. The authors argue that business and information systems engineering research can provide integrated perspectives that connect technology and markets. Consequently, the authors derive a framework from an extensive interdisciplinary literature review that structures the academic state of the art on microgrid design and could guide associated information systems research. The framework comprises four layers: energy technology and infrastructure, information and communication infrastructure, application systems, and governance. The authors evaluate the framework in interviews with 15 experts from industry and three from academia. Their feedback allows to iteratively refine the framework and point out research directions on microgrids in business and information systems engineering. Keywords Microgrid Á Renewable energy sources Á Framework Á Literature review Á Research agenda Á Green IS Á Energy informatics 1 Motivation and Research Questions In a global Delphi study on future trends in energy systems, 64% of 350 experts from around the world argued that ''by 2040 the energy supply system will be structured in a cellular way: interconnected cells and 'islands' of the size of a city or medium-sized region will generate their energy from solar power, wind power, storage units and a minor share of conventional reserves'' (BDEW et al. 2016). In this future energy system, microgrids will play an important role. A microgrid is a small, decentralized distribution network comprising electricity generation, loads, and storage devices. It presents itself to the main power grid as a single controllable load that can also operate in islanded (self-sufficient) mode (Liang and Zhuang 2014). According to Hossain et al. (2014), microgrids are ''one of the most practical solutions for green and reliable power.'' Microgrids' ability to mitigate energy systems' challenges, such as integrating renewable energies (Hatziargyriou et al. 2007), simplifying demand side management

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