Decentralized control architecture for multi-authoring microgrids

A prosumer is a consumer who uses tiny, renewable electricity generation units and, in addition to consumption, can also generate electricity. With the increase in the number of prosumers in a power grid, it is expected that the paradigm of network utilization, at least at the distribution level, would change from centralized to decentralized utilization. In this new paradigm, microgrids are essential in the operation of the whole grid. The decentralized control of a stable network of microgrids (i.e., minimal power outages and fluctuations) is a significant challenge. In this paper, we present an architecture for decentralized control that consists of intelligent agents that manage the distribution network provided by the microgrids at the highest level and houses and their devices at the lowest level. The agents, managed by different private companies, dynamically organize themselves in units called holons, follow their defined policies, and can most tolerate network disruptions. In this architecture, self-adaptive agents will play a key role in sustaining network performance by controlling energy consumption and exchange (i.e., in the event of a shortage in a part of the distribution network). In the end, by simulating the architecture, the capabilities are shown.