Implementation of Microgrid Virtual Laboratory in a Design Course in Electrical Engineering

The deployment of distributed generation contributes to the facilitation of the microgrid concept and grid modernization on a global scale. An increasing number of workforces are required for further development of microgrid systems. However, the mismatch between the University education and industry expectation places a negative impact on workforce development for future energy infrastructure. This paper introduces the implementation of a microgrid virtual laboratory for a design course. The key elements of this developed course are described in detail and the reflections from the students are investigated. This contribution also provides a statistical analysis of the students' knowledge gap in the field of microgrids. The curricula design outlined in this study can be proposed in future power engineering education to offer competent students for the microgrid industry.