An Interactive Community Microgrid Model to aid Design Exploration

Abstract

This dissertation presents a novel approach to microgrid design and exploration through the development of an innovative software application. The primary objective of this research is to empower users to configure and simulate community microgrids, offering multiple time-frame insights into performance metrics, statistical analyses, and pertinent factors aligned with their specific configurations. In collaboration with Ahuora under their third Aim, a key focus is on optimizing factory process heat management while experimenting with renewable energy sources to effectively mitigate overall power consumption. The application developed for this thesis focuses on representing these assets accurately, facilitating the setup/internal optimization of these assets, and allowing the users to tailor the configuration to explore consequences and effects of their changes. Employing a multidisciplinary methodology, the study seeks to integrate Digital Twin technology tenets, Object-Oriented Programming, Polymorphism, Data Modelling and Visualization, and Complex Power Calculations to formulate a robust and user-friendly software interface. Furthermore, meticulous GUI design and advanced graphing techniques ensure data visualization is both informative and intuitive. This research culminates in a comprehensive demonstration of the software's capabilities, successfully showcasing its efficacy in meeting outlined objectives. By affording users the ability to dynamically shape and assess microgrid configurations, this study advances the field of sustainable energy management and underscores the potential for optimized factory operations within a renewable energy framework.