The Smart Polygeneration Microgrid Test-Bed Facility of Genoa University

The aim of this paper is to describe the Smart Polygeneration Microgrid (SPM), which is going to be constructed at the Savona Campus of the Genoa University, also thanks to funding from the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research. Besides producing renewable and high efficiency energy for the University Campus, the SPM will constitute a test-bed facility for research, development and testing of management strategies, devices and components for smart grid applications. The main features of this infrastructure will be outlined, pointing out its peculiarities, such as the use of the IEC 61850 protocol and a close integration between electric and heating networks. Furthermore, the activities which will be carried out thanks to the SPM and the challenges in its operation and optimal management will be discussed, in the context of the current research on microgrid and smart grid technologies.