Networked Microgrid Design and Operation for Enhancing the Grid Resilience in Extreme Conditions

Closely-located regional microgrids (MGs) can be interconnected to form networked microgrids (NMGs) which are operated collaboratively to achieve certain objectives pertaining to varying spatial and temporal operating conditions. This paper discusses the adaptive formation of NMGs as a strategic and promising initiative toward a more resilient electricity service delivery in critical load regions. The paper points out that MGs are building blocks of an active distribution network (ADN) and NMG operations can be optimized in a dynamic situation to withstand extreme events and restore the normal operation more expeditiously when extensive and prolonged outages are encountered. Multiple illustrative case studies are presented in this paper to demonstrate the role of NMGs in enhancing the ADN resilience in extreme conditions.