Sustainable energy solutions in Colombia based on isolated DC microgrids

Nowadays the world’s energy transition is transforming the paradigm of how power systems are being developed. This is causing new alternative systems to be included into these power grids. One of these alternatives is the DC microgrids that, due to their reliability, operability, and control charac...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Joseph Camilo Sosapanta-Salas, Carlos David Zuluaga-Ríos, Sergio D. Saldarriaga-Zuluaga, Juan David Velásquez-Gómez
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Universidad de Antioquia 2025-08-01
Series:Revista Facultad de Ingeniería Universidad de Antioquia
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Online Access:https://revistas.udea.edu.co/index.php/ingenieria/article/view/352496
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Summary:Nowadays the world’s energy transition is transforming the paradigm of how power systems are being developed. This is causing new alternative systems to be included into these power grids. One of these alternatives is the DC microgrids that, due to their reliability, operability, and control characteristics, are currently considered sustainable solutions within this energy transition. This paper outlines the inclusion of DC microgrids as a technological solution to the problem of Non-Interconnected Zones (NIZ) in Colombia. Specifically, this study presents a detailed comparison of a DC microgrid with respect to an AC microgrid, discusses regulatory issues for the inclusion of these elements in the National Interconnected System (NIS), and evaluates a case study in a NIZ of Colombia such as Vigía del Fuerte in Antioquia. Based on the results, it is clearly deduced that DC microgrids are a feasible and profitable solution in NIZ in Colombia and these DC small-scale grids may decrease the total Net Present Cost (NPC) and the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) by 10% for both, compared to AC microgrids for different microgrid configurations. Additionally, regarding these sustainable initiatives, it is essential to standardize the procedures associated with the commissioning of the microgrids, especially with the aspects of connection, protections, and operational adjustments if required by the regional utility company.
ISSN:0120-6230
2422-2844