Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objectives: This study is aimed at analyzing the characteristics of an 11 kV microgrid system when connected to a combination source of fuel cell and battery storage. Methods/Statistical Analysis: To do so, Matlab Simulink software was used as simulation platform. Three types of connection were simulated which are first; fuel cell to grid, second; battery storage to grid and lastly; combination of fuel cell and battery storage to grid1 . Findings: For each connection type, parameters such voltage, current, active power and reactive power are recorded when the grid is either in connected or disconnected mode. Simulation results have shown positive values of active power and reactive power which flows from the source to the grid side in both modes. Application/Improvements: This implies that the combination of fuel cell and battery storage is a reliable source for a particular constructed microgrid system to be successful. If implemented in real application, the suggested microgrid system will be a dependable alternative to supply electricity to rural areas which are too remote and unfeasible to be connected to a conventional grid system.

Keywords: Battery Storage, Fuel Cell, Microgrid, Matlab Simulink, Renewable Energy