Demand analysis and Low Voltage DC sizing of a renewable energy based microgrid in Bangladesh without AC connection

Abstract

Millions of homes doesn’t have access to grid connection in Bangladesh. Off-grid renewable based systems are breaking through in rural areas. These microgrids usually rely on solar energy and also batteries are implemented. This report deals with the modelling and operation of a network interconnecting several households that include solar systems. Each solar system includes ones solar panel, one battery and one unit of load. This approach is compared to a more centralized version, in terms of power losses, where the production and consumption are connected separately. Nevertheless, the energy supplied is not enough as electrical needs go increase. That’s why this report studies the demand evolution in detail in order to improve the quality of life of grid users. It is revealed that a new sizing is required for existing Low Voltage DC microgrids consisting on adding more solar panels and batteries until demand is fulfilled. This sizing is obtained with the help of adapted MATLAB programs created by Masters Students from UPC real data.