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
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.