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431 - Advanced Topics in Electric Technologies: Storage and Microgrids

Core/Elective: Core
Credits: 0.5
Quarter Taught: Fall

 

Synopsis:

This course describes fundamental concepts related with the development of microgrids and the integration of distributed generation. Technical topics are divided in three modules. The first module introduces microgrid components and discusses the main types of microsources. The second module focuses on energy storage technologies. The third module include system integration topics, such as power electronics interfaces; dc and ac architectures; economics, operation, stabilization, and control; reliability aspects; grid interconnection, and microgrids as part of “smart” grids. This course also aims at preparing students to conduct research or helping them to improve their research skills.

 

Course Objectives:

  • Understand the core (hardware) technologies for storage and their characteristics;
    • Develop an understanding of the operating principles of energy storage technologies— batteries, fuel cells, super capacitors
    • Components of batteries— cathode, anode, electrolyte materials
    • Compare systems in terms of performance, life-cycle, efficiency, and capacity tradeoffs
    • Explore other storage media such as Hydro, Thermal, Compressed-Air Energy Storage (CAES), Flywheels, etc.)
  • Establish an understanding of microgrids and their function;
    • Build knowledge in the purpose of microgrids and the technology required to deliver new energy outcomes
    • Ensure basic understanding of energy and power management, electrical conversion and distribution, centralized and distributed protection and control, and the orchestration of distributed energy resources including primary, secondary, and tertiary control methodologies
    • Introduce grid integration: methods, benefits, drawbacks
  • Develop the capability to assess opportunities to deploy storage and microgrids from an economic, technology and regulatory point of view;
    • Analyze and discuss economic implications and key market applications for storage media and microgrids
    • Understand the core technology requirements to deploy storage and / or build a microgrid
    • Build a high-level understanding of policies and regulation that govern microgrids