Micro-grids
Micro-grids are small scale versions of the traditional grid that allow specific local goals to be met. They can be connected to the macro-grid or function independently and typically manage real-time demand, supply and storage of electricity often in a large campus such as a University. A micro-grid can be a well-defined network of physical hardware, generation sources and storage or it can be considered as a local electricity management strategy using existing infrastructure but optimising it to achieve the best local outcome.
Where local generation is available, micro-grids have the potential to improve efficiency by connecting local consumers to decentralised electricity generation (photovoltaic (PV) or other micro- generation technology) and thereby reduce transmission and distribution losses associated with the grid supply. This is particularly applicable where new housing developments are constructed and the appropriate hardware and infrastructure can be installed from new.
In the future, new business models may arise surrounding micro-grids where commercial organisations act as intermediaries and install the necessary hardware to allow a local electricity management strategy to be played out and at the same time negotiate with the electricity supplier on behalf of their consumers.
This article was created by --BRE. It was taken from The future of electricity in domestic buildings, a review, by Andrew Williams, published in November 2014.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- DC isolators for photovoltaic systems (FB 68).
- Electricity supply.
- Feed in Tariff.
- Flexible electrical networks for a low carbon future.
- Glossary of electrical terms.
- Islanded grid.
- Microgeneration certification scheme.
- Mini-grids.
- Solar photovoltaics.
- Smart buildings.
- Smart technology.
- Substation.
- Switchgear.
- The future of electricity in domestic buildings.
- The UK’s low-carbon future is increasingly electric.
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.