42090 Introduction to Sustainable Microgrids
Subject description
This subject aims to equip you with an understanding of the design and control of sustainable microgrids, small-scale power systems that can function independently or in conjunction with larger grids. You'll learn about the essentials of microgrids, including their architecture, distributed generation, energy storage technologies like batteries and fuel cells, converter functions, power management, and hierarchical controls. The curriculum also covers microgrid modeling, stability, and protection, as well as detailed insights into storage and battery technologies. Through real-world case studies, you'll gain practical knowledge, equipping you to contribute to the development of efficient and reliable energy systems essential for global transformation.
Subject learning outcomes (SLOs)
1. Describe sustainable microgrids and the challenges of implementing them in communities. (B.1)
2. Design and evaluate new microgrids considering consumer behaviours and technical requirements to improve the resilience of power supply. (C.1)
3. Analyse cost and benefits of microrgid technology to support low-carbon power system operation and energy efficient operation. (D.1)
4. Evaluate the design of a current microgrid to determine its reliability, sustainability and possible improvements. (C.1)
Teaching and learning strategies
This subject runs a series of workshops. Each workshop will include different activities including a short lecture, question and answer session, problem solving activities, laboratory training and working on a design-based group project. This subject will introduce microgrid (MG) components (distributed generation and energy storage), MG modelling, MG operation and control, protection, stability analysis and controller design. The design projects will develop your technical expertise, problem solving skills, design skills, and research skills. Other activities are seminars and discussions including collaborating with peers and finding answers to student questions on technical content and project design. Prior to the block teaching activity, you are required to study the subject topic notes, the design project requirement, and associated readings and prepare questions relating to the content. You are advised to use both the subject topic notes and recommended references.
All students are expected to attend all workshops, as one builds on to the next. The teaching aims to provide you opportunities to engage in MG modelling and analysis, operation control, MG design, and sustainability analysis. Workshops are designed to encourage interaction between students and the lecturer. You will have the opportunity to raise any doubts and questions in relation to the workshop topics and in particular the design projects, and receive the feedback from the lecturer. Continuous feedback will be given in combined forms of oral, written, email, online, etc., during workshops and through assessment tasks.
Problem solving questions relevant to the workshop topics will be solved interactively in groups. You are encouraged to work through exercise problems and practise on the case studies in the recommended references. You are required to solve the design projects collaboratively within your assigned group. The laboratory exercises are part of the design training where you have more opportunities to discuss your questions with the lecturer and/or tutors.