Hastily-Formed Microgrid project (HFM) utilizes commerical-off-shelf (COTS) components.

Hastily-Formed Microgrid Project Transitions to Student Learning Tool

The NEPTUNE-sponsored Hastily-Formed Microgrid project (HFM) is taking on new life as a testbed for student projects and experiments for microgrid technology. The HFM was originally designed to demonstrate the potential for military, humanitarian, and disaster relief forces to construct flexible low cost micro-grids using readily available commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components. The system consisted of 1200w of solar generation and 4800wh of battery storage built into a rugged rolling cart that could be easily transported for demonstrations or to serve as a mobile power source. This system is now being used by the Power Systems Integration Lab at the Naval Postgraduate School as a platform for students to conduct experiments and learn more about micro-grid technologies. Planned experiments include integrating new software solutions for power management and exploring ways to improve battery cycle life. A follow-on project is in the works to build a larger grid-tied microgrid into a standard shipping container to serve as a template for building larger, more capable systems using COTS components. The lessons learned from these projects will hopefully help pave the way for wider adoption of affordable and rapidly deployable microgrid systems.

LEARN MORE

Email Brandon Naylor at blnaylor@nps.edu or call 831-656-1986