Case study of the Hierarchical control strategies to Maximize the Benefits in Commercial Applications

Microgrids are emerging as effective solutions for providing resiliency, sustainability, and cost savings through interconnected loads and distributed energy sources. However, their successful deployment poses various challenges in design and development. The implementation of an efficient hierarchical control strategy is pivotal in maximizing the benefits of a microgrid’s operation. In this paper, we present the design and deployment experience of a microgrid in a commercial building, focusing on the adoption of a hierarchical control strategy to optimize its functionality. By managing real-time load-generation imbalances, the proposed strategy ensures the microgrid’s optimum operation. As a result, the microgrid deployment has significantly reduced the electricity costs for the connected building loads, from ${\$}$ 23k/month to ${\$}$ 18.5k/month, representing a remarkable reduction of $19.5 \%$. This case study demonstrates the tangible advantages and potential of hierarchical control strategies in enhancing the efficiency of microgrid operations