Microgrid
A local electrical system that can operate independently.
The dashed boundary encloses local generation, storage, and a building. The open switch represents separation from the external grid.
A microgrid is a group of connected loads and distributed energy resources within a defined electrical boundary, controlled as one system and able to operate independently. A grid-connected microgrid can disconnect from the wider grid to run in island mode.
An electrical boundary that can stand on its own
A microgrid contains loads and distributed resources that can be controlled together. Its electrical boundary is defined, and a grid-connected microgrid can separate from the wider network to operate in island mode. A collection of solar panels or batteries alone is not automatically a microgrid.
Independent operation needs suitable controls, protection, and resources able to establish voltage and frequency inside that boundary. Available energy and generating capacity limit which loads can be served and for how long.
Why it matters
A properly designed microgrid can maintain selected services during wider outages and coordinate resources in normal operation.