A Method for Low-cost Microgrid Data Aggregation and Dashboard Display Prototype

Control of a microgrid is a complex task and requires sophisticated communication and monitoring for reliable operation. This paper presents a microgrid specific low-cost data acquisition system that enables monitoring of electrical system quantities with an emphasis on power quality and energy analysis. Data is aggregated from components within a functional microgrid system using a variety of communication methods. A main control unit processes the collected data, calculating quantities and housing a database used for dashboard display. Three dashboards are generated applying the collected data, each designed with different audiences in mind: 1) general public, 2) microgrid operations and 3) power quality researchers. Dashboard design and system performance is analysed with potential for microgrid secondary control implementation.