A microgrid is a small-scale, local energy system that can disconnect from the traditional utility grid and operate independently. It can function as a sophisticated backup power system during grid repairs or other events that cause extensive power outages because of its independence and capacity to continue operating on its own. A microgrid is far more resilient to storms and other natural calamities because there is no significant infrastructure to maintain or replace.
The importance of microgrids is expanding quickly. Microgrids can significantly increase sustainable growth. Customers now have control over their power thanks to locally regulated microgrids’ capacity to disconnect and function independently.
The technical foundation for many microgrid systems frequently remains quite consistent, despite the fact that a microgrid may take different shapes and forms depending on its purpose and economic situation.
Rugged tablets assist the planning, building, and managing of microgrids.
Planning
The current design and planning tools for the electric grid rely on oversimplifying the physics of power systems, which cannot handle uncertainty and are typically operated on desktop computers or servers. Rugged tablets have high-performance computing capability to handle the grid’s growing complexity, which aids in tackling this problem. Rugged tablets can be combined with apps and energy systems to perform simulations, map designs to accommodate available technologies, and run reports on how to assess the final result’s efficacy.
Building
Increased interest in microgrids coupled with better and more robust digital tools to operate and maintain assets is leading to innovation in the microgrid design space. Rugged tablets integrated with Digital Twin can help design, analyze, validate, and configure the microgrid system. Rugged tablets allow for detailed modeling, simulation, evaluation of design feasibility, and configuration and comparison of a variety of scenarios. Utilizing rugged tablets in conjunction with micro grid systems, the design and logic of the system can be validated, conditions can be forecasted and microgrid systems can be optimized.
Management of Microgrid Systems
IoT solutions and mobile computing devices can cut costs for clients while enhancing the grid’s intelligence, security, safety, and dependability. Utilities are able to keep a constant voltage of current levels and use platforms to spot performance problems. Power outages can be avoided with the use of smart meters and sensors built into power lines, transformers, and pumps which can benefit from monitoring and proactive maintenance programs that lower risk and expense.
Despite their advantages, renewable energy sources like wind and solar cause system instability and increase operational expenses. The digitalization of assets is being driven by IoT technologies and digital tools to suit client needs. Rugged tablets can make it simpler for utilities to gather more data and do predictive analytics, they can lower operating expenses and maintain profitability.
Rugged tablets improve data collection and analysis of data for enhanced decision making capabilities.