SOC-Aware Control of Microgrid Energy Storage for Off-Grid Electrification Using Kalman Filter Forecasting

This paper presents a state-of-charge (SOC)-aware control strategy for standalone photovoltaic (PV)–energy storage system (ESS) microgrids to improve power reliability and operational efficiency in off-grid regions. The method integrates a Kalman Filter-based forecasting algorithm with real-time generator scheduling and battery management. By predicting short-term solar generation and load demand, the control scheme maintains SOC within safe limits and prevents both overcharge and deep discharge. Coordination between diesel generators and ESS units enhances efficiency by optimizing resource utilization under fluctuating renewable energy conditions. Simulation studies are performed under multiple operational scenarios, including generator outages and variable PV output, to assess system robustness. Results show that the proposed strategy reduces generator runtime and improves energy autonomy. Overall, the approach provides a scalable low-carbon solution for rural electrification with limited grid access.