Modelling of microgrid energy systems with concentrated solar power

Sammanfattning: This master’s thesis presents the work performed during a four-month long internship at Azelio AB in Gothenburg. Energy performance models for common energy technologies in microgrid energy systems were developed and validated. The investigated technologies are traditional and bifacial PV modules, wind turbines, Li-ion battery energy storage systems and diesel generators. Subsequently, they were utilised to simulate the energy supply of two remote communities in Queensland, Australia. Azelio’s CSP technology, which combines heliostats, thermal energy storage with phase change materials and Stirling engine, was introduced as well. By means of scenarios and key performance indicators, the possibility of disconnecting such towns from the local electricity distribution network was investigated. Both technical and economic aspects were analysed. This led to the conclusion that 10 MW CSP system would be sufficient to achieve grid independence if extra backup capacity, e.g. diesel generators, or demandside control strategies, are introduced. Sensitivity analysis performed on the possibility of dividing the CSP park into two clusters, the smaller one being subject to a power threshold, was investigated as well. In terms of economic feasibility, off-grid systems resulted more expensive than maintaining the grid connection.