Microgrids for Rural Areas: Research and Case Studies

Large rural areas in some regions of the world are still grappling with the challenge of electrification. The optimal solution is to provide reliable energy without adding more fossil fuel plants by using distributed renewable generation.

Microgrids are part of that solution; they are small networks of electricity users, with a local generator that is attached to a centralized larger grid, but which is also able to function independently. They need to be robust and resilient in order to provide reliable power, including in harsh climates. For remote areas microgrids have the advantage of offering an electricity supply even if there are problems with the larger power grid.

This book focuses on the challenges of rural electrification, particularly in poorer regions. It covers low voltage DC distribution system for various applications including charging of electric vehicles (EV). Written by a large team of authors with a wide range of relevant experiences, the book addresses microgrid architectures, converters, energy storage, control, EV integration, business models and economic scheduling, and the role of blockchain technology. The authors have used case studies to provide illustrative examples of the technologies discussed and solutions proposed.

Rajeev Kumar Chauhan is working as Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Agra, India. He was associated with University of Texas at Austin, United States, and University of Manchester, United Kingdom, as a visiting scientist and a research scientist, respectively. He is a senior member of IEEE and a member of IE (India). He has received some reputed national and international awards for his research contributions in the area of microgrid systems.

Kalpana Chauhan is Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, India. She was associated with University of Texas at Austin as a visiting scientist. She is a senior member of IEEE, WIE, IAS and an associate member of IE (India). She has received some reputed national and international awards for her research contributions in electrical engineering.

Sri Niwas Singh is Vice-Chancellor at MMMUT Gorakhpur and on leave from Professor (HAG), Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Kanpur, India. He is an IEEE Region 10 (Asia-Pacific) Vice-Chairman, Technical Activities 2019-2020. Prof. Singh is Fellows of IEEE, INAE, IET(UK), IE(I), IETE and life member of ISCEE. He has received various reputed national and international awards for his research contributions in electrical engineering and services.