Environmental and Social Aspects of Microgrid Deployment- A Review

• Main Authors: Saxena, Abhinav, Patil, G M, Kumar Agarwal, Nirmal, Singh, Anushka, Prakash, Amurt, Sharma, Kailash
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: AC Microgrid; Architecture; Benefits; Distributed energy; Economics; Energy loss; Law; Microgrids; Production; Renewable energy sources; Smart grids; Sustainable energy
• ISSN: 2687-7767
• DOI: 10.1109/UPCON52273.2021.9667612

The smart microgrid concept arose from the depletion of nonrenewable energy resources, as well as the reduced production of current facilities and environmental damage. It gives a likely-looking as well as encouraging solution during periods of faults and unstable operation, without requiring the entire tedious and time-consuming process of re-designing the distribution system. Microgrids are one of the most important alternatives for constructing a future that encourages energy conservation, economic efficiency, and reliable electricity. The profitable nature of renewable energy has led to their enhanced exploration which provides a balance in the environment along with protection of excessive consumption of non- renewable sources. They are considered efficient because they use the heat emitted after the working process, prevent energy loss during transmission, and meet supply-demand power requirements. The use of renewable resources allows for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the conservation of energy. Microgrids make use of waste heat, help manage power supply and demand, and improve grid resilience to adverse weather by reducing energy loss through transmission lines. Because of the economic and legal issues involved, there is still a long way to go in terms of speeding up the implementation of Microgrids. The paper aims to review the various benefits of microgrid operation, especially the environmental and social aspects along with the challenges faced by it. The ways to foster its deployment are also critically reviewed.