Barriers, challenges and opportunities for microgrid implementation: The case of Federal University of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract The expansion in the use of Distributed Energy Resources is changing the traditional distribution grid structure and may cause its management and operation more complex. Microgrids, perhaps the most promising novel grid structure, are presented as a way of expanding such technologies, with the potential of mitigating or eliminating negative effects, and even allowing their organized expansion and the improvement of benefits. For that, microgrids must overcome some challenges to make their participation in the power sector viable. This article aims to describe the main barriers to the entry of microgrids in the world power sector and identify some constraints on promoting their development and participation in the Brazilian Power Sector. In order to exemplify their challenges and opportunities and, mainly, to reduce energy costs, this work proposes the implementation of a microgrid in the Technology Center of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Six arrangements were simulated to define the most technically and economically viable solution.