The Economics of Microgrids

Book excerpt: THE ECONOMICS OF MICROGRIDS An incisive and practical exploration of the engineering economics of microgrids In The Economics of Microgrids, a pair of distinguished researchers delivers an expert discussion of the microeconomic perspectives on microgrids in the context of low-carbon, sustainable energy delivery. In the book, readers will explore an engineering economics framework on the investment decisions and capital expenditure analyses required for an assessment of microgrid projects. The authors also examine economic concepts and models for minimizing microgrid operation costs, including the cost of local generation resources and energy purchases from main grids to supply local loads. The book presents economic models for the expansion of microgrids under load and market price uncertainties, as well as discussions of the economics of resilience in microgrids for optimal operation during outages and power disturbances. Readers will also find: A thorough introduction to the engineering and economics of microgrids Comprehensive explorations of microgrid planning under uncertainty Practical discussions of microgrid expansion planning, operations management, and renewable energy integration Fulsome treatments of asset management and resilience economics in microgrids Perfect for senior undergraduate and graduate students as well as researchers studying power system design, The Economics of Microgrids will also benefit professionals working in the power system industry and government regulators and policymakers with an interest in microgrid technologies and infrastructure.