Optimal design of a microgrid for carbon-free in-use housing developments: a UK-based case study

James Hewitt, David Sprake, Yuriy Vagapov () and Shafiul Monir
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James Hewitt: Wrexham University
David Sprake: Wrexham University
Yuriy Vagapov: Wrexham University
Shafiul Monir: Wrexham University

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2025, vol. 27, issue 7, No 103, 17697-17718

Abstract: Abstract The UK Government’s plan to be net-zero by 2050 means that decarbonising the national grid whilst continuing to provide steady and reliable electricity is paramount. The microgrids, formed by a combination of renewable energies, energy storage systems and a connection to the grid can pave the way to changing the UK energy landscape. Microgrids have been providing power to small communities on UK shores for over 20 years. The rationale of this work is to present the optimal microgrid design for new housing developments in various UK locations. The power sources for each case study comprised of wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, hydro turbines, battery energy storage systems and a connection to the grid. Environmental impact, load performance and economic feasibility were key performance indicators when selecting the optimal microgrid design for each location. The objective is to find optimal combinations of wind turbines, hydro turbines, and a connection to the grid for case studies and to demonstrate that microgrids can provide consumers with free, carbon-reduced electricity throughout their 25-year project lifetime, and be funded entirely by consumers alone. Based on this research findings the optimal configuration of the microgrid is determined and analysed; the recommendations for the stakeholders are developed.

Keywords: Renewable energy; Microgrid; Net-zero; Carbon-free; Island mode; Grid-connected; Optimisation; HOMER pro (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-024-04695-2

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