A model-based assessment of sustainable grid interconnection: A case study for micro hydro based minigrid in Nepal

The sustainability of the isolated operation of generators has always been a question, especially for geographically challenged areas that are yet to be connected to the national grid or have limited access to it. To provide access to electricity, several options have been explored in the past and a minigrid is among one them. Connecting the isolated micro hydropower plants with the national grid through minigrids or as an independent power producer has been identified as the only viable solution to maintain the sustainability of such power plants. Authors in this study have considered a case study of possible minigrid in Jumla, Nepal, and analyzed its technical viability through power system analysis, including Load Flow, and Transient Analysis. The study has shown that the minigrid is technically feasible and must be considered for interconnection with the national grid.