The smart microgrid pilot project of the University of Genoa: Power and communication architectures

The aim of this paper is to describe the Smart Polygeneration Microgrid (SPM) test-bed facility at the Savona Campus of the Genoa University. The SPM constitutes a pilot plant for research, development and testing of management strategies, devices and components for smart grid applications. The main features of this infrastructure will be outlined, focusing on its power and communication architecture, based on the use of the IEC 61850 protocol and on a close integration between electric and heating networks. Furthermore, the activities which will be carried out thanks to the SPM and the challenges in its operation and optimal management will be reported, in the context of the current research on microgrid and smart grid technologies.