Collaborative microgrids as power quality improvement nodes in electricity networks

This paper explores the integration of microgrids within utility networks and distinguishes selfish from collaborative microgrids. Research has shown that selfish microgrids tend to increase volatility of order updates to power generators, whereas collaborative microgrids decrease that volatility, resulting in smoother, more controllable operations of networks. This paper proposes an analytical formula linking power volatility to power quality, i.e., to issues such as voltage dips, surges, and transients. These are known risks for disrupting the operation of utility grids, causing instability and jeopardising efficiency and reliability. As collaborative microgrids reduce volatility, they improve power quality. That argument is extended to propose that collaborative microgrids can act as quality improvements agents within wider networks.