Monitoring Energy and Power Quality of the Loads in a Microgrid Laboratory Using Smart Meters

Abstract

Microgrids are local energy production and distribution networks that can operate independently when disconnected from the main power grid thanks to the integration of power generation systems, energy storage units and intelligent control systems. However, despite their advantages, the optimal energy management of real microgrids remains a subject that requires further investigation. Specifically, an effective management of microgrids requires managing a large number of electrical variables related to the power generated by the microgrid’s power supplies, the power consumed by the loads and the aspects of power quality. This study analyzes how we can monitor different variables, such as the active power, reactive power, power factor, total harmonic distortion and frequency in the loads of a microgrid, using high-precision power meters. Our empirical study, conducted using a functional microgrid comprising a hybrid wind–solar power system and several household appliances, demonstrates the feasibility of using low-cost and high-performance power meters with IoT functionality to collect valuable power quality and energy consumption data that can be used to control the microgrid operation.