What is a Nanogrid and How Can It Improve Reliability?
I’ve written about microgrids multiple times in the past, but now a new variation has been introduced – the nanogrid. Both have similarities and differences, yet both can be used to provide a boost to reliability. If you’re intrigued, read on for a quick primer!
Comparing a Nanogrid and a Microgrid
Some of the main differences are:
- A nanogrid is smaller and more flexible than a microgrid.
- Nanogrids are more affordable, and easier to deploy, than microgrids.
- Nanogrids are easier to aggregate if necessary, to create a coordinated response to the main grid during emergency situations.
- Microgrids can be complex, incorporating multiple sources of energy,
In terms of similarities, both a nanogrid and a microgrid are forms of local energy in the sense that they are self-sufficient power networks that serve people in specific, localized areas or communities. They can either operate independently or can connect to the main grid. In the latter scenario, they can quickly isolate from the main grid if necessary, via islanding, and can sell power back to the utility during times of peak demand.
Both integration scenarios – i.e., having the localized power network sit independent of the main grid, or connected to it – offer increased reliability and protection from outages. This is obviously critical due to the expected upward trend in outages going forward thanks to global warming, as well as the fact that more people will likely be working remotely from now on, making access to electricity even more important than before.
In the final analysis, both types of localized power networks are similar, but a nanogrid tends to be cheaper and easier to deploy, as well as more flexible to accommodate multiple use case scenarios. That said, there will be a place for both types of networks going forward, there’s no doubt about it.
