Hybrid micro-grid (μG) Based residential utility interfaced smart energy system: Applications for green data centers and commercial buildings

Abstract

This paper proposes a new hybrid grid based residential utility interfaced smart energy system. The proposed system is suitable for residential townships, green data centers, commercial, and departmental buildings. Green energy storage option in the form of gas encouraging clean transportation is selected. Smart meters and/or pre-paid meters help monitoring the power consumption from utility and electricity bill. Smart energy management resulting in optimal decisions on energy flow directions is the key of this system. Based on pricing, renewable energy output, load demand, storage, and forecasting, decisions are made and communicated by a central intelligent unit. Such a system is capable of providing a supporting power in cases of power cut, blackouts, grid failure, and peak demand, as well as results in minimum purchase from the utility resulting in cost saving of the user (low electricity bill). It ensures continuity of power, and better (to maximum) energy utilization. It provides users/customer multiple choices to choose from, and decide on the optimal selection. It also facilitates sustainable and low carbon living and mobility. Fuel cell vehicles, electrolyser, and multi-port dc/dc converters are encouraged. © 2012 IEEE.