Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids from edX

Photovoltaic systems are often placed into a microgrid, a local electricity distribution system that is operated in a controlled way and includes both electricity users and renewable electricity generation. This course deals with DC and AC microgrids and covers a wide range of topics, from basic definitions, through modelling and control of AC and DC microgrids to the application of adaptive protection in microgrids. You will master various concepts related to microgrid technology and implementation, such as smart grid and virtual power plant, types of distribution network, markets, control strategies and components. Among the components special attention is given to operation and control of power electronics interfaces.

You will be familiarized with the advantages and challenges of DC microgrids (which are still in an early stage). As a verified learner you will also have the opportunity to master the topic of microgrids through an exercise in which you will evaluate selected pilot sites where microgrids were deployed. The evaluation will take the form of a simulation assignment and include a peer review of the results.

This course is part of the Solar Energy Engineering MicroMasters program designed to cover all physics and engineering aspects of photovoltaics: photovoltaic energy conversion, technologies and systems.

Earn a Microcredential

After finishing this course, and passing the related exam, you are eligible to receive one microcredential. A microcredential is a digital certificate that allows learners to demonstrate the knowledge and skills acquired after successfully completing a small unit of education. It describes the learning outcomes, educational level and scope of the course or program – and adds a quality mark, as it is bound to a recognized quality framework. For more information, please read the FAQ below.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Difference between a microgrid, a passive distribution grid and a virtual power plant
Ancillary services provided by microgrids and pv
Operation of centralized and decentralized control, forecasting, and evaluation of different market policies through a case study
Operation of active power control and voltage regulation

Different layouts and topologies of microgrids and power electronic components, and the role of power electronics converters in microgrids
Microgrid protection, adaptive protection, and the consequences of using a fault current source and fault current limitation
Main motivations and challenges for the implementation of dc microgrids
Verified learners will have the added benefit of evaluating different strategies to control multiple inverters and to analyze local control to improve stability.

Difference between a microgrid, a passive distribution grid and a virtual power plant
Ancillary services provided by microgrids and pv
Operation of centralized and decentralized control, forecasting, and evaluation of different market policies through a case study
Operation of active power control and voltage regulation
Different layouts and topologies of microgrids and power electronic components, and the role of power electronics converters in microgrids
Microgrid protection, adaptive protection, and the consequences of using a fault current source and fault current limitation
Main motivations and challenges for the implementation of dc microgrids
Verified learners will have the added benefit of evaluating different strategies to control multiple inverters and to analyze local control to improve stability.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Relevant to industry practice

Comprehensive overview of microgrids

Taught by notable course instructors

Includes a hands-on exercise for verified learners

Presents a mix of theoretical and practical knowledge

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids with these activities:

Attend webinars on microgrid technology

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Expand your knowledge and connect with experts by attending webinars on microgrid technology and related topics.

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Search for upcoming webinars on microgrid technology.
Register and attend the webinars.
Take notes and ask questions during the webinars.

Review basic electrical engineering concepts

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Refresh your knowledge of basic electrical engineering concepts to strengthen your understanding of microgrid operation and control.

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Review Ohm's law and Kirchhoff's laws.
Practice solving simple electrical circuits.

Host a study group on microgrid topics

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Enhance your understanding and engage with peers by organizing a study group focused on specific microgrid topics.

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Identify a specific microgrid topic to focus on.
Gather a group of interested peers.
Meet regularly to discuss the topic, share insights, and work on problems together.

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Participate in microgrid simulation workshops

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Gain hands-on experience by participating in workshops that focus on microgrid simulation using tools like MATLAB/Simulink.

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Find microgrid simulation workshops in your area or online.
Register and attend the workshops.
Follow the instructions and complete the simulation exercises.

Simulate microgrid operation using MATLAB/Simulink

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Enhance your understanding of microgrid behavior by working through guided tutorials that involve simulating microgrids using MATLAB/Simulink.

Browse courses on MATLAB/Simulink

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Find and follow a tutorial on microgrid simulation using MATLAB/Simulink.
Replicate the simulation steps and analyze the results.
Experiment with different microgrid configurations and control strategies.

Solve microgrid control and protection problems

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Strengthen your analytical skills by solving problems related to microgrid control, protection, and power electronics.

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Find a collection of microgrid control and protection problems.
Attempt to solve the problems using the concepts learned in the course.
Compare your solutions with provided answers or consult with others.

Assist with microgrid research projects

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Apply your knowledge and contribute to the field by volunteering to assist with microgrid research projects.

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Contact university research labs or industry organizations involved in microgrid research.
Inquire about volunteer opportunities and express your interest.
Assist with data collection, analysis, or other tasks as assigned.

Develop a presentation on microgrid applications

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Solidify your understanding of microgrid applications by creating a presentation that explores different use cases and benefits.

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Research various applications of microgrids, such as remote electrification and grid resilience.
Organize the information into a coherent and engaging presentation.
Present your findings to an audience or share them online.

Career center

Learners who complete Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

PV System Designer

PV System Designers design and engineer photovoltaic systems. In order to be successful in this career, you must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will provide you with a strong foundation in these principles, which will help you to be more successful in your career.

See salaries and explore the career path for PV System Designer

Renewable Energy Engineer

Renewable Energy Engineers design and develop renewable energy systems. In order to do this, they must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you develop a solid foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Renewable Energy Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Renewable Energy Engineer

Energy Auditor

Energy Auditors assess the energy consumption of buildings and make recommendations for how to improve energy efficiency. In order to do this effectively, they must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" can help Energy Auditors to build a foundation in these principles, which can help them to be more successful in their careers.

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Microgrid Engineer

Microgrid Engineers design and operate microgrids. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course, "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you develop a stronger foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Microgrid Engineer.

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Solar Panel Installer

Solar Panel Installers are responsible for installing and maintaining solar panels. In order to do this, they must be familiar with the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" can help Solar Panel Installers to develop a deeper understanding of these principles, which can help them to be more successful in their careers.

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Power Systems Engineer

Power Systems Engineers design and operate power systems. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will give you a strong foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Power Systems Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Power Systems Engineer

Solar Energy Consultant

Solar Energy Consultants provide advice to businesses and individuals on how to use solar energy. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will give you a strong foundation in these principles, which will help you to become a more successful Solar Energy Consultant.

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Smart Grid Developer

Smart Grid Developers develop and operate smart grids. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you to develop a strong foundation in these principles, which can help you become a more successful Smart Grid Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Smart Grid Developer

Energy Storage Engineer

Energy Storage Engineers design and develop energy storage systems. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you to develop a stronger foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Energy Storage Engineer.

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Energy Policy Analyst

Energy Policy Analysts analyze and develop energy policies. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will give you a strong foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Energy Policy Analyst.

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Electrical Contractor

Electrical Contractors are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical systems in buildings. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you to develop a deeper understanding of these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Electrical Contractor.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts analyze data and develop insights. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will help you build a foundation in these principles, which can help you to be more successful in your data analysis career.

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Sustainability Consultant

Sustainability Consultants help businesses and organizations to become more sustainable. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" will give you a strong foundation in these principles, which can help you to become a more successful Sustainability Consultant.

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Researcher

Researchers conduct research on a wide range of topics. They must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism. The course "Solar Energy: Integration of Photovoltaic Systems in Microgrids" can help build a foundation in these principles, which can help you to be more successful in your research career.

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Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers analyze, design, and test electrical systems and components. They work on a wide range of projects, from power plants to electronic devices. In order to do this work, Electrical Engineers must have a strong understanding of the principles of electricity and magnetism.

See salaries and explore the career path for Electrical Engineer