Microgrids are small community networks that supply electricity and heat… Microgrids, say the researchers, could easily integrate alternative energy production, such as wind or solar, into the electricity network. They could also make substantial savings and cuts to emissions without major changes to lifestyles, according to lead researcher, Dr Tom Markvart. “This would save something like 20 to 30% of our emissions with hardly anyone knowing about it”…
A microgrid is a collection of small generators for a collection of users in close proximity… It supplies heat through the household, but you already have cables in the ground, so it is easy to construct an electricity network. Then you create some sort of control network. That network could be made into a smart grid using more sophisticated software and grid computing technologies… Microgrids are designed for a smallish community - a typical UK housing estate for example.
