Research on the status and prospect of microgrid technology

Abstract. With the increasing demand for electrical energy and the appeal of environmental protection, the world has started to pay attention to the application of microgrids. A microgrid is a grid with many advantages, such as independence, effectiveness in working, and environmental friendliness, and can solve both energy and environmental problems. The paper reviews the microgrid system: how it functions, how it has advantages in energy and environmental aspects, and the prospects of microgrid in the future using a literature review. Microgrid has a flexible operation since it can find the optimum solution for generation, transmission, and distribution by shifting smoothly between island mode (which generates electricity by itself and directly transmits it to the supply side) and grid-connected mode (which connects to macrogrid and is dependent on its power supply). It also has energy reliability for its control system and energy storage system to coordinate the output power, which enhances the utility of energy resources. Microgrid has great potential for solving energy problems in remote or poverty-stricken areas and has unlimited prospects in industry, residential communities, and utilities and energy providers.