Designing Resilient Microgrids: An Energy-Storage Centric Approach

PI: Simona Onori 

Department: Department of Energy Science and Engineering

Sponsor/Party: Office of Naval Research 

Military operations increasingly rely on tactical microgrids to ensure energy resilience, operational flexibility, and mission success in dynamic environments. LFP batteries present promising opportunities for enhancing the performance and sustainability of military energy systems. This research aims to investigate the utilization of LFP batteries in military tactical microgrids, addressing key challenges and optimizing their integration to support critical operations

The objective of this investigation is to develop a robust state estimation system for LIB ESS systems using a combination of fundamental hybrid models (combining physics-based and data-driven models), optimal design of experiments, in-situ diagnostic tests and adaptive control methods for real-time SOC and OSH estimation. More specifically, we will develop a reliable state estimation pipeline that (a) is sensitive to aging phenomena of the battery while incorporating SoC-dependent effects, (b) can accurately estimate the internal states of the LIB system with high accuracy using data and physic-based techniques during cycle as well as calendar aging operation, and (c) designs experiments and in-situ tests that support the development of the aforementioned estimation schemes.

Through the execution of this action plan, our objective is to advance the knowledge and technology surrounding LIB ESS for microgrids. By addressing the challenges of degradation, and state determination, under variable conditions, we aim to significantly improve the performance and reliability of these critical energy storage solutions thereby improving the resilience and reliability of US Navy microgrids.