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Microgrids: the future of power generation

The range of distributed and renewable power generation sources is growing constantly, along with a digitalization process that has already rocked some industries to the core. The combination of these phenomena has led to the emergence of small-scale power networks or "microgrids" - pioneered by our partnership with Qinous.

"Microgrids are indispensable to the energy turnaround because they reduce carbon emissions and use renewables in an eco-friendly way, yet still offer top levels of energy security."

Andreas Schell, CEO, Rolls-Royce Power Systems Business Unit

What is a microgrid?

The MTU microgrid system combines environmentally friendly renewables and gensets with batteries and a control system for intelligent energy management

Microgrids are defined as small-scale power networks that can function autonomously or collaboratively with other power grids – often more ecologically, economically and reliably than traditional or renewable power supplies. This is because microgrids can include photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, hydro-electric plants, diesel gensets, and combined heat and power (CHP) modules to provide cleaner, more reliable energy to the communities who need them.

Microgrids can provide power to remote locations without access to a public grid, or operate in conjunction with existing power networks to provide a supplemental, environmentally friendly supply of power to industrial complexes or local communities.

An ecological, economical evolution

The major challenge with renewable energy has always been storing power, and then releasing it when it is needed. Power from CHP plants and diesel-powered gensets is always available but not as ecological nor economical as today’s regenerative energy sources. While better for the environment, energy from wind and photovoltaic plants is not as reliable because the power output fluctuates depending on the weather.

Microgrids provide a cleaner, consistent power solution by combining diverse types of power generation with batteries and a control system that integrates all the elements in a smart system at local levels.

"Microgrids combine clean and cost-effective renewable energies with our reliable generator sets and are thus the future of the power industry."

Alexander Patt, Director Direct Sales & Project Management, Rolls-Royce

Microgrid systems: finely calibrated control

The critical component in a microgrid is the control system. To enable the control system to decide which power sources to use, the customer first must specify the key parameters - such as a preference for cheap power, “green” power from regenerative sources, or variable power based on energy availability. Based on those parameters, the control system calculates which energy sources to use, and when and whether to deliver energy to consumers or to charge the batteries. That is where AI comes into play.

"A modern microgrid control concept must be smart enough to accurately predict which energy sources will be needed to deliver the perfect energy mix."

Armin Fürderer, Director of Customer Solutions Power Generation, Rolls-Royce

Battery containers from MTU

The MTU battery container incorporates 154 modules and 3,388 lithium-ion cells. Together, these elements can store around 1,000 kWh of electrical energy – that is about 14 times as much as a Tesla Model X. MTU’s battery container also boasts around 2,000 kW of electrical power and a capacity of 1,095 kW/h. A transformer adapts the output voltage of the MTU battery container to match the connected power grid.

MTU Microgrids

Our Microgrid, consisting of photovoltaic panels, battery container, Gas CHP- and Diesel gensets and a is already in service. These components form an integral part of the Microgrid Validation Center at our Friedrichshafen facility, where we can demonstrate the function of custom microgrids individually configured to specific customer requirements. Special transformers, inverters and switchgears in the new building simulate the function of other energy sources that can be integrated into a microgrid.

Turnkey energy storage and control solutions

In 2018, we acquired a stake in Berlin-based energy storage and systems start-up Qinous GmbH. Qinous is a global provider of innovative energy storage and control systems, adding turnkey microgrids to the portfolio. Qinous has gained considerable experience in the integration of battery storage and energy systems in microgrids in more than 30 projects worldwide – and has already integrated MTU Onsite Energy systems from Rolls-Royce in such projects.

We look forward to our continuing partnership with Qinous to further develop innovative energy storage and cleaner power solutions designed to meet tomorrow’s needs. We can now combine powerful battery containers, renewable power generation plants, and intelligent control for complete turnkey microgrid solutions.

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