Towards energy independence at KENTECH: A comprehensive microgrid implementation roadmap.

This paper introduces a comprehensive microgrid roadmap for the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH), an energy specialized institute in South Korea, aligning with the country's overarching objective of achieving carbon neutrality by the year 2050. The roadmap outlines the integration of diverse energy resources-primarily renewables-to enhance sustainability and energy efficiency on campus. The paper also describes key elements for achieving autonomous energy operations through advanced technologies such as energy management systems, network gateways for system interoperability, static transfer switches, intelligent electronic devices, and power condition systems. It also presents details on our microgrid management system and customized data collection platform that acquires data from internet of things devices, advanced metering infrastructure, and automated revenue measurement. Additionally, by using a stochastic two-stage optimization model, we evaluate 1,320 scenarios to identify the optimal energy mix, focusing on the integration of renewable sources. Our findings reveal that a 15 MW solar capacity, coupled with an advanced energy storage system (ESS), can significantly enhance energy self-sufficiency, achieving up to 100% self-sufficiency in specific scenarios. The study demonstrates that increasing the solar installation from 5 MW to 15 MW, while integrating ESS, reduces dependency on imported power by 35% and enhances operational efficiency. Moreover, the optimization model indicates a potential 15% reduction in operational costs when demand response strategies are effectively implemented, particularly during peak activities. Furthermore, the microgrid design is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 60%, contributing to KENTECH's role as a leader in sustainable energy management. These results highlight the roadmap's capability to transform KENTECH into a model of energy independence, with significant implications for similar institutions globally.