Paving the way to smart micro energy grid: concepts, design principles, and engineering practices

The interconnection between initially independent energy infrastructures offers additional system flexibility and efficiency. The integration at distribution level simplifies the implementation of the integrated energy system functionalities. This paper proposes concepts and design principles of a smart micro energy grid (MEG) for accommodating micro-grids, distributed poly-generation systems, energy storage facilities, and associated energy distribution infrastructures. The energy management system is responsible for the smart operation of the MEG while supporting multiple criteria, such as safety, economy, and environmental protection. To realize the vision of the smart MEG, an engineering game theory based energy management system with self-approaching-optimum capability is investigated. Based on the proposed concepts, design principles, and energy management system, this paper presents a prototype of China's first conceptual solar-based smart MEG, established in Qinghai University.