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Microgrids are a subset of the modern power structure using distributed generation to supply power to communities rather than vast regions. The relatively smaller scale mitigates transmission loss with better control, greater security, increased reliability, and design flexibility. This study explores the modeled performance and cost viability of a hybrid grid-tied microgrid that utilizes the combination of solar photovoltaic (PV), batteries, and fuel cell (FC) systems. The proposed concept highlights that each community home is equipped with more solar PV than is required for normal operation. As the homes are part of a microgrid, excess or unused energy from one home is collected for use elsewhere within the microgrid footprint. The surplus power that would have been discarded becomes a community asset and is used to run intermittent services. The modeled community does not have parking adjacent to each home allowing for the installment of a privately owned slower Level 2 charger. This makes electric vehicle (EV) ownership untenable. Based on this study, an optimum configuration is recommended to provide a Level 3 dc quick charger for an intermittent service. The addition of batteries and FCs is meant to increase load leveling, improved reliability, and instill limited island capability.
Patterson et al. (2014) studied this question.