Duration
18h Th, 18h Pr, 24h Proj., 1d FW
Number of credits
Lecturer
Language(s) of instruction
English language
Organisation and examination
Teaching in the second semester
Schedule
Units courses prerequisite and corequisite
Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program
Learning unit contents
Learning unit contents
Microgrids are localized electrical power systems that integrate distributed energy resources (renewable generation, energy storage, and flexible loads) within clearly defined electrical boundaries. They can operate either connected to the main utility grid (grid-tied mode) or isolated from it (islanded mode). Driven by the rapid cost reduction of solar photovoltaics and battery storage, the electrification of heating and transport, and advances in power electronics and digital control, microgrids play a pivotal role in the energy transition, local energy communities (LECs), and resilient power system architectures.
The course adopts a systems engineering and applied mathematical optimization approach. Unless stated otherwise, internal distribution line impedances are neglected (copper-plate assumption) to focus deeply on conversion interfaces, control dynamics, forecasting, operational planning, and economic sizing.
The course is structured into three comprehensive modules:
- Module 1: Microgrid Architecture, Physical Components & Interfaces
- Module 2: Inverter Control & Hardware-in-the-Loop Real-Time Operation
- Module 3: Microgrid Optimization, Forecasting, Planning & Investment Sizing
Learning outcomes of the learning unit
- To understand what are the main components of a microgrid and to get the basic knowledge for building one.
- To know how to optimize both the control of a microgrid and its sizing.
- To understand how microgrids can be integrated into the main utility grid.
This course contributes to the learning outcomes I.1, I.2, III.1, III.2, III.3, III.4, IV.1, IV.3, IV.6, VI.1, VI.2 of the MSc in electrical engineering
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
To derive maximum benefit from this course, students are expected to possess:
- Circuit Theory & Electrical Systems: Thorough understanding of AC/DC circuit analysis, three-phase systems, phasors, and active/reactive power (prerequisite: ELEC0053 Circuits Électriques or equivalent).
- Power Systems & Power Electronics Notions: Familiarity with basic electrical machines, grid operation, and power converters (e.g., ELEC0055 Elements of Power Electronics, ELEC0447).
- Mathematical Programming & Machine learning: Elementary notions of linear algebra, continuous optimization (objective function, constraints, LP standard form), and basic machine learning notions.
- Scientific Computing in Python: Proficiency in writing clean, structured Python code using NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib.
Planned learning activities and teaching methods
Short theoretical sessions. Implementation and experimentation by the student on computer-aided simulation tools and in the lab. Q&A with the Professor and the teaching assistant.
Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)
Face-to-face course
Further information:
Short teaching sessions, face to face discussion of assignments.
We will visit a site where PV panels and a battery will be installed, take some information, and design the system in class.
Course materials and recommended or required readings
Platform(s) used for course materials:
- eCampus
Further information:
Course slides and other material are available on GitHub https://github.com/bcornelusse/ELEN0445-microgrids and eCampus throughout the year.
Written work / report
Further information:
- Group assignments will take place throughout the semester.
- Each assignment will be evaluated in class during mandatory sessions. Evaluators will provide alternative use cases, and students must implement the required modifications during the session without access to external resources.
- While the preparatory work is collaborative, the final evaluation is strictly individual.
Work placement(s)
Organisational remarks and main changes to the course
See https://github.com/bcornelusse/ELEN0445-microgrids for the course schedule and organization.