Incorporating Solar Home Systems for Smart Grid

Applications
B. Alipuria (*), B. Asare-Bediako (*), R.J.W. de Groot (*), J.Sarker (*), J.G. Slootweg (*), W.L. Kling (*)
(*) Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
B.Alipuria@student.tue.nl; B.Asare.Bediako@tue.nl; R.J.W.d.Groot@tue.nl; J.Sarker@student.tue.nl; J.G.Slootweg@tue.nl;
W.L.Kling@tue.nl

Abstract- Smart Grids have been one of the prime focuses of
studies for the past few years on power systems. The goal is to
make the power infrastructure more reliable and effective to
cater for the needs of the future. Another goal for improving the
power infrastructure is to incorporate renewable energy sources
in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The popularity of solar
PV has increased in recent times which has lead to exponential
growth in the installed solar PV. This paper compares four
possible scenarios for incorporating household solar PV systems
into the power grid. It discusses the properties of each scenario
along with their advantages and disadvantages. An effective
system layout can be obtained by choosing the suitable case for
incorporation of solar home systems according to the
requirements.
Index Terms-- DC Micro-grids, Distributed generation,
Energy management system, Smart Grids, Solar home system
I. INTRODUCTION
The last few years have seen considerable increase in
energy demand in the world [1]. This is due to the increasing
population and the rising standards of living. A concern in
this regard is that the conventional resources for power
generation are limited and are depleting rapidly. Additionally
there is a great requirement to find alternative ways to
generate power due to climate change problems and
increasing anthropological CO2 levels. This has led to a major
development in renewable energy sources (RES) [2]. Despite
many efforts, RES are still struggling to replace conventional
generation sources. One of the prime reasons is the
uncertainty and “uncontrollability” of these sources. One of
the solutions to incorporate renewable energy sources as a
major part of power system is to have multiple buffers to
compensate for their uncertainty [3].
Smart Grids is a much discussed concept for future power
systems. It incorporates the functioning of components of the
grid in an intelligent and flexible manner for optimal
operation of the grids [4]. The various components i.e.
generation sources and loads are monitored and a local or
central control co-ordinates the power flow according to set
rules, priorities and preferences. Information is collected,
processed and managed for monitoring and controlling of
various components. Such ideas are also incorporated in this
paper.
Keeping in mind the need for renewable energy and the
need for power grids to be smart, in this paper an attempt has
been made to design a system that could meet the
requirements of the future. This has been primarily done by
integrating the solar home systems into the power grid with
effective controls and information transfer. Advanced
technologies have been acknowledged that could enhance the
performance of such a system to accomplish effective and
competent electric power scheme.
II. SOLAR HOME SYSTEM
The most preferred renewable source of energy by the
consumers, particularly in sunny parts of the world, is the
solar photovoltaic system [5]. Due to its easy installation and
almost no maintenance, it is very easy to incorporate within
the home system. It provides local generation source for
every household which can be used in various ways and also
avoids transmission losses. The home system can also consist
of batteries that store energy for future/emergency use along
with the controllers and converters required in accordance to
the type of use. Energy storage acts as a buffer to increase
system’s reliability and improve control for the network. The
conventional system layout for a Solar Home System (SHS)
is shown in Fig. 1.
The sizing of various components is done according the
requirement of the user and its installed function [6-7]. Users
can manage their energy by choosing between power from
grid or PV panels as the primary source and the other as
backup. The user can control the load operation to match the
time of generation so include the ideas of demand side
management [8]. This reduces the stress on the grid and
makes it stable. In the case of excess energy during day time,
it can either be stored in batteries to be used later or supplied
back to the grid. The batteries are often expensive hence large
power storage is difficult. Supplying back to the grid has
some challenges like low feed-in tariffs, and power quality
standards [9]. With generation at distribution level, often the
conventional power infrastructure is challenged. On the other
Fig. 1. Layout for conventional solar home system
hand, it enables ‘bottom-up principlles’ by use of disturbance in the main netwoork. Then affected component
decentralized generation sources in the power system. It will be isolated automatically and
a the rest of the system shall
makes the system more robust and reliable.. The SHS needs to function in limited capacity. Thhis would reduce the affected
be incorporated within the future grids innfrastructure. There area and make the network more robust.
are certain conditions that it must satisfy along with giving In this paper, we will maainly consider on designing a
sufficient comfort to the user. micro-grid with SHS actingg as distributed generation.
Multiple micro-grids can be combined
c to cater to a larger
III. SMART GRIDS
network bringing in stability and
a modularity to the system
It is important to redesign the poweer infrastructure to [14].
integrate the various new and developing technologies within
IV. HOME ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
the system. These include the technologies on generation,
storage and efficient use of power. Also thhe incorporation of Controlling an interface of loads and grids would require
communication technology within the pow wer system would an effective energy managemennt system that would empower
lead to a more efficient, versatile and a user friendly the user to control its power flows. f This unit is called the
infrastructure. Hence the concept of Sm mart Grids is being Home Energy Management Sysstem (HEMS). It does not only
researched to integrate such various advanncing technologies monitor and control the power flows f but also enables the user
in the infrastructure [4]. A variety of ways have been used to to customize his power accordiing to his needs. The user can
define such a system, but for this paper we have used the select what source of power he//she prefers. It can control the
comprehensive definition of Smart gridds by Smart Grid load devices using the HEMS thus t enabling him to prioritize
dictionary [10]. the demand according to conddition [15]. This can be done
The Smart Grid is a bi-directioonal electric and using the principles of demand side s management of power.
communication network that improvess the reliability, The HEMS can function inn various modes according to
security, and efficiency of the electric syystem for small to the needs of the user and thee best suitable environmental
large-scale generation, transmission, distribution, and condition. Various scenarios can be programmed in the
storage. It includes software and hardwarre applications for system to control such a poweer system. It also acts as the
dynamic, integrated, and interoperablee optimization of intelligent centre for the housee that operates on the basis of
electric system operations, maintenance, and planning; information signals it receivees from the grids and loads
distributed generation interconnection and integration; and respectively. It optimizes the power usage of the home
feedback and controls at the consumer leveel. according to the instructions of the user. HEMS plays a major
One of the most important distinctionns in a smart grids role in empowering the user. General G architecture for Home
infrastructure is the inclusion of Informatioon Communication energy management is shown inn fig. 2.
Technology (ICT) at various positions of thhe systems. It plays
V. INTELLLIGENT LOADS
an important role to monitor system at various
v points and
evaluate the state of various parts of the system. It should With the advancing technoology, loads are developed to
communicate this information to other parrts so the effective integrate into the evolving gridd network. This would include
action can be taken by the other parts of the system if intelligent control that would enable them to work more
required. effectively and synchronies themselves in accordance
Such ICT based network ensures reeliability in power network conditions [16]. Thesse devices can be controlled
supply and better power exchange withinn the grid. Also it from the HEMS or individual controls within the device.
would be able to incorporate all kinds of o generation, both Such devices would be capable of automated operation under
small and large within the system in an effiicient manner. This required conditions. They mayy even have the capability to
would greatly improve the ability of inteegrating distributed store energy. Electric vehicles can c be considered as one such
generation and local RES. Such an advannced system would load that can store energy hencee acting as a buffer if required
need to include additional software and harrdware for efficient [17].
working [11]. In total, the system would eaase the pressure on
environment by promoting renewable genneration sources at
various points on the grid. The network would be easy to
monitor and operate and to a great exxtent autonomous.
Another important feature would be to em mpower the user to
participate in the power grid in an effecttive with a deeper
understanding of the system [12].
In a Smart Grid are multiple seensors and relays
monitoring and operating the networkk. Communication
technologies shall be used to exchange required information
within system for efficient operation [13]. It includes storage
as energy buffers and smart load like electtric vehicles. There
is also a possibility of networks connectedd in such a manner
that it is possible to operate in island mode
m if there is a Fig. 2. Home energy management system
m architecture
 VI. SYSTEM DESIGN
To design the system for SHS integration, multiple cases
were formed and evaluated. The formation of the cases is
based on possible combination of various components that
could be used in a SHS. These cases are compared with each
other primarily based on the following parameters:
1. Technology 2. Complexity
3. Efficiency 4. Flexibility
A HEMS has been considered as a control unit in every
home and an interface to the network.
Case1: Utility grid connected to the load along with the
HEMS. Storage is personal and no energy is fed back to the
grid.
The case is formulated simply by combining the SHS
with utility grid infrastructure along with ICT enabled
controls monitored by HEMS as shown in Fig. 3. Due to
private storage availability, the house can work on island
operation if the grid fails. There are no changes in the
operation of the network and the smart features are
extensively applied within the home.
• Technology: The technology for the system is well
developed and is already in application.
• Complexity: There is some degree of complexity involved
in the operation. Various sources like PV power input,
battery SOC, load power and grid quality can be variables
for operation.
• Efficiency: The system is not very efficient due to the
need for a very large battery in order to store all the
excess energy for the household. There is limited need for
conversion of power between AC/DC.
• Flexibility: Limited flexibility for the user due to limited
storage and singular power source. No additional
flexibility is gained for the network.
Case2: There is no storage in the system. Any excess power
generated is fed back to the grid.
This case is formed by removing the storage from the
SHS to analyze its effects as shown in Fig. 4. Due to lack of
Fig. 3. System layout for case 1 - Utility grid connected to the load along
with the HEMS. Storage is personal and no energy is fed back to the grid.
Fig. 4 System layout for case 2 - There is no storage in the system. Any
excess power generated is fed back to the grid
storage and unpredictable RES it becomes difficult to operate
the network with high efficiency. It can be overcome by the
prediction of RES and load as accurately as possible.
• Technology: The technology for the system is developed
to a great extent. The power quality at grid level is
affected adversely due to inverters but can be improved.
• Complexity: The system is really simple to manage as
there are not a lot of components reducing the number of
variables for operation. The complexity for operation is
prediction of load and generation accurately which can be
overcome by having a variable load or buffer system.
• Efficiency: It is difficult to predict the load and generation
precisely and with lack of storage. Any mismatch in
energy is influences power quality of the utility grid.
• Flexibility: There is no flexibility for the user or network
operator. The generation must meet the demand at all
times which is often difficult to predict.
Case3: Utility grid is connected to community storage and
the HEMS. Excess energy generated by PV is fed back to the
grid.
This case is formed by using communal storage at grid
level thus reducing the need for private storage as shown in
Fig. 5. The use of communal batteries is more effective
compared to individual batteries [18]. It provides a larger
storage to every household hence ensuring optimized usage.
These can be collectively maintained and the operation can be
monitored by the network operator, providing more
flexibility. Also, the storage can be used as a fast charging
station for electric vehicles or other purposes that requires
high power for short term.
The grid becomes more robust and certain parts can
operate in islanded mode if there is a fault. The storage helps
the network to integrate RES within the system with a higher
efficiency in comparison to a network with no storage [18].
• Technology: There is a developed technology available
for this scenario as well. The power quality of the utility
grid is affected by the numerous feed-in inverters during
excess generation.
• Efficiency: System efficiency is reduced due to multiple
conversions of power between AC and DC at various

Fig. 5. System layout for case 3 - Utility grid is connected to community
storage and the HEMS. Excess energy generated by PV is fed back to the
grid.
levels of the grid. Many economically viable converters
are used that also affect the power quality.
• Complexity: The system is relatively easy to operate at
user as well as network level. There are not many
variables that need to be taken into account thus making
the system simple.
• Flexibility: The user has limited flexibility. Network
operator gains the needed flexibility for an efficient
operation due to the presence of storage.
Case4: Excess power is not fed back to the grid but stored in
a communal storage which is connected to the HEMS using a
DC network.
The case is formulated by adding an additional DC grid
that connects the HEMS to the communal storage as shown in
Fig. 6. This configuration allows the additional DC
technology to be integrated within the grid. It provides a lot
of advantages that DC has to offer along with making the
system more reliable by providing dual voltage network.
These have been discussed further in the paper.
• Technology: The technology involved in the system
would be new and needs to be perfected with time. The
technologies that are in play for the network already exist
but have to be improved upon according to the needs.
• Flexibility: Due to multiple power sources, the system has
a high degree of flexibility. Both AC and DC power are
available for the user to choose from. There is a storage
system for excess generation. There is a lot of freedom for
both the network operator as well as user within the
system.
• Efficiency: The presence of both AC and DC encourages
reduced power conversions. This improves the efficiency
of the system. Power quality for the grid is enhanced.
Incorporating storage allows efficient integration with
RES.
• Complexity: The operation of the system can be really
complex due to the large number of variables in the
system. This is a trade-off between flexibility of the
system. This can be overcome using effective ICT control
strategies by both user and network operator.
With the advancement in power electronics, it might be
important to consider DC systems as a part of the network.
There has been great progress in electronics technology.
Various modern day devices work on DC. With only AC
networks, there is a need to convert the power to DC for such
devices that reduces system efficiency. A DC-powered local
grid can reduce the conversion losses [19-20]. Apart from the
load devices, there are also DC generation sources like PV
panels which are really simple to implement. The formulation
of a DC power network would reduce the need for many
AC/DC conversions improving the efficiency of the system.
The absence of frequency function makes a DC network
simpler to control, monitor and operate. Power transmission
with DC is also more effective than AC transmission [21].
Another major advantage that incorporation of DC lines
could provide for the network would be their ability to carry
information signals along with DC power [22]. Since DC
current is a constant voltage line, information signals can be
easily superimposed on the line. Telecom technology like
Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) technology can
be used for transmission of data in the network over short
distances on these DC lines. This reduces the need for
separate channels for data transfer making the communication
more secure [23].
DC networks are already applied in various niche areas.
Many ships and submarines are powered by DC networks
[24]. People have started employing total DC technology to
power off-grid house [24-25]. Many commercial data centres
have also been suggested to switch to DC power mode which
can be up to 20% more efficient than using AC power [20].
Even though the use of DC has many advantages, there
are still many barriers it must overcome. The most important
one would be standardization of DC. There are no standards
of DC voltages, so manufacturers can’t products to connect to
a DC grid network directly. Another concern is the safety and
regulatory aspect of DC networks. Since it is a new
technology, large scale implementation must be regulated to
safeguard society. Once standardization is done, the
technology on networks can advance much faster.
Fig. 6. System layout for case 4 - Excess power is not fed back to the grid
but stored in a communal storage which is connected to the HEMS using a
DC network
 Fig. 7. Proposed system layout – Integrating solar home systems to smart grid infrastructure (Extennsion of Case 4)

A micro-grid can be formed by connecting

c various
HEMS systems to the communal storage toogether as shown in [1]
Fig. 7. This could even enable large renewwable sources like
wind farms and solar farms to be conneected to the grids
without any problem. The ICT infrasttructure could be [2]
embedded within the network omitting the t need for extra
communication network. The system would be reliable, more
flexible and futuristic. [3]
VII. CONCLUSION
The Solar Home Energy Managemennt System can be [4]
easily incorporated in the new Smart Gridd design giving the
user multiple options to choose from. Thee system keeps the
[5]
user informed about the state of the netwwork so he/she can
make intelligent decisions regarding operaation. It is possible
to include DC technology and a communall battery within the [6]
design which makes the system more flexxible and robust in
use. ICT incorporation within the system makes
m it smart and [7]
futuristic. Standardization of DC is requirred for mass scale
integration in the system. With advancingg technologies, the
system can be used to its best capacity making
m the power [8]
infrastructure much more reliable and versatile. Comparison
of various cases for integration of SHS witthin the system has
been given in Table I. [9]
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TABLE I
COMPARISON OF CASES FOR SHS INTEGRATION

Case Main Components Advantages Disadvantages

1 PV Modules + HEMS + • Developed technology • Private batteryy leads to high cost

Grid + Individual storage • Simple operation • Limited flexibility
• High efficiency

2 PV modules + HEMS + • Simple operation • Difficult to operate with RES

Grid • Developed techolgoy • Limited flexibility
• Cost effective operation • Grid power quuality affected

3 PV modules + HEMS • Operational flexibility at grid level • Efficiency lossses due to multiple conversions
+Grid + Communal storage • Effective integration with RES • Grid power quuality affected

4 PV modules + HEMS • Backup DC grid structure • Developing tecchnology

+Grid + Communal storage • High flexibility • Complex operaation
+ DC network • Higher efficieny • High investmeent cost for the DC-network
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