Urban microgrids represent a promising solution to address the growing challenges of resilience and equity in our cities. By integrating renewable energy sources and facilitating decentralized electricity management, these systems not only reduce dependence on large infrastructure but also enhance communities’ ability to cope with crises, whether natural or human-made. By optimizing the operation of these microgrids, it is possible to ensure equitable access to energy while strengthening the safety and sustainability of urban energy networks. This integrated approach is essential to build cities capable of adapting and thriving in the face of tomorrow’s challenges.
Urban microgrids are small local energy systems capable of producing, storing, and distributing energy autonomously or in conjunction with the main grid. They provide an innovative solution to mitigate the effects of natural disasters, cyberattacks, and climate change on urban infrastructures and populations.
The Benefits of Urban Microgrids
Microgrids enhance urban resilience by ensuring service continuity even in the event of a failure of the main grid. They also promote the use of renewable energy and encourage citizen participation in local energy decisions, thereby increasing equity.
Key Components of Microgrids
To optimize microgrids, several technical and social indicators must be taken into account:
- Technical indicators: Criticality of infrastructures, peak loads, implementation costs, potential of renewable energy sources.
- Social indicators: Social vulnerability index, basic service needs, representation of vulnerable groups.
Case Study and Methodology
Researchers applied an integrated methodology using spatial data and stakeholder surveys to evaluate and optimize microgrids in New Hanover County, North Carolina, impacted by Hurricane Florence in 2018. This approach allowed for determining a microgrid configuration that is balanced economically, in terms of resilience and equity.
Research Findings
The results revealed that the optimal solution, consisting of six microgrids, not only reduced costs but also minimized welfare losses in the event of a disaster. Each microgrid had access to emergency, health, and safety services, while integrating local energy storage solutions and rooftop photovoltaic panels.
Applications and Perspectives
The results of this research can be applied to any urban context, taking into account the specific characteristics of each city. It is crucial to integrate microgrid planning into sustainable urban development projects and to ensure the involvement of all stakeholders.
Further research is needed to refine optimization methods and improve the understanding of social and environmental indicators.
Recommendations for the Future
To develop resilient and equitable urban energy systems, researchers recommend:
- Close collaboration between local governments, urban planners, and communities.
- The integration of microgrids into sustainable urban development policies.
- Particular attention to social and technical indicators for optimal planning.
List: Optimization of Urban Microgrids
| Technical Aspects | Social Aspects |
| Critical infrastructure | Social vulnerability index |
| Implementation cost | Basic service needs |
| Renewable energy availability | Democratic participation |
