The world is rapidly integrating renewable energy resources into the existing grid systems. However, the unpredictable nature of renewables and uncertain load profiles cause issues such as poor power quality, lower system reliability, complex power management, battery degradation, high operating costs, and lower efficiency. Microgrids can help smart grid technology overcome several problems associated with renewable energy integration. Distant locations can obtain electricity without building extensive transmission infrastructure, cutting development costs, or transmission losses. The intermittent nature of renewable energy sources contributes to microgrid problems such as poor power quality, decreased reliability, and high operating costs. Model predictive control (MPC) is an effective method to address challenging industrial and scientific issues. Advancements in MPC that accept different system constraints have solved multiple concerns in uncertain microgrid systems. MPC applied to three hierarchal control layers in a microgrid resolves the problems of power quality, power sharing, energy management, and economic optimization. This study demonstrates that MPC microgrid control is suitable for low-cost operation, improved management, and reliable control. The shortcomings of recent model predictive control techniques for microgrids are reviewed, and future research directions for MPC microgrids are identified.INDEX TERMS Microgrids, renewable energy resources, model predictive control, power quality enhancement, energy management system, hybrid energy storage system, demand side management, demand response, distributed systems