DIMO complete first fully operational microgrid system at Moratuwa University | Daily News

DIMO complete first fully operational microgrid system at Moratuwa University

With the recent successful completion of the nation’s first comprehensive grid-tied renewable energy microgrid project at the University of Moratuwa (UOM), DIMO, a leading diversified conglomerate in Sri Lanka, is now well equipped to implement microgrid systems for the local industries to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. DIMO will also provide microgrid services to the Maldives and rural regions in Africa where the company has already established its footprint through other engineering solutions.

As a company that continuously strives to reshape the green energy landscape of Sri Lanka, DIMO is providing advanced solutions for mini-hydro, biomass, solar and wind power plants in the country. DIMO has also played a key role in the implementation of Sri Lanka’s first-ever wind power project in Mannar and the successful completion of the nation’s first microgrid system is a true testament to DIMO’s commitment to implementing innovative green energy initiatives.

The microgrid system at the UOM supplies uninterrupted power to the university despite the current power cuts faced by the country. Even during the 13-hour power cuts, the microgrid was capable of effectively managing the demand of the connected loads. DIMO implemented the microgrid system at UOM in collaboration with Lanka Electricity Company (LECO) and with the financial assistance of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This project connects stand-alone grids to ensure an uninterrupted, renewable power supply throughout the distribution area at any time. The completed system consists of a 375kW of Solar PV, 418kWh of Battery Storage and a 1170kVA backup Diesel generator.

With this project, UOM now can generate its power requirement within its premises, without depending on the national power supply.

DIMO also partnered with German off-grid experts DHYBRID, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions with individualized control systems for hybrid energy supply, for this project. DHYBRID has implemented over 75 projects in more than 25 countries around the world.

DHYBRID’s energy solutions combine the power from multiple renewable energy sources including solar and wind, with the traditional grid, diesel-powered generators and battery storage, while perfectly controlling these sources to effectively and efficiently meet the varied power requirements of the clients.

A microgrid system is a decentralised group of electricity sources and loads that are connected synchronously to the main power grid.

A microgrid runs on two modes. The off-grid mode supplies power to the loads via energy sources without the support of the grid, whereas in the on-grid mode, the system stays synchronised with the grid, and any excess power is fed to the grid.

DIMO Group CEO Gahanath Pandithage said, “During these challenging times, the development of such solutions is vital in the nation’s progress.

This is a timely concept offering an ideal solution for many industries including business centres, factories, resorts, hospitals, universities, data centres and more.”

 


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