Development and application of a model-based collaborative analysis and design framework for microgrid power systems

Microgrids have been recognised as essential components of the smart grid. However, recent advances on communication, control, and other intelligent techniques have also significantly increased the design complexity of the microgrids. This calls for attention for the microgrid community to be aware of the latest design challenges and develop visionary approaches to re-evaluate the legacy power system design concepts and analysis tools that are currently utilised for microgrid studies. This study proposes a novel model-based analysis and design framework tailored specifically for microgrids based on the concept of model-integrated computing. The proposed framework aims to provide a flexible and extensible integrated environment to facilitate rapid modelling and simulation of microgrids as well as the implementation of other control, analysis, and microgrid design applications. In this study, the authors focus on demonstrating and examining how the adoption of the proposed framework can effectively reduce the duration and costs of the design process, enhance the experience of the end-users, and improve the overall quality and efficiency of the microgrid study activities. Case studies under various microgrid operating scenarios are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.