Microgrids hold significant promise to meet DoD requirements for energy security and resiliency. However, adoption of microgrids within DoD is hindered by high costs and slow acquisition due to: a) disconnected design processes that require multiple software models and tools; b) lack of capability to conduct effective design/analysis/testing prior to field deployment; c) interoperability issues between legacy equipment (“brown field”) and new equipment; d) lack of flexibility and modularity to accommodate upgrades consistent with evolving requirements; and e) lack of ability to integrate and control multiple microgrids on the same installation. In order to address these issues, Typhoon HIL proposes an Integrated Model-Based Design Process (IMBDP) comprised of software, modeling libraries, and specialized computing hardware for the design, simulation, analysis, test automation, and real time emulation of microgrids.

The performing organization, Typhoon HIL, Inc.’s technology enables deterministic calculations necessary for ultra-high fidelity modeling and simulation of microgrids. The components of the system are:

• Common software suite – used throughout the process, that is used to build, maintain and iteratively improve power electronic models, implement the latest communications methodologies for control modeling, and a robust automated test capability.
• Modeling libraries – integrated capability for modeling of power electronics and control.
• Field-Programmable Gate Array-based computing hardware – for the conceptualization, design, simulation, analysis, test automation, and real time emulation of microgrids.
• HILCOMPATIBLE component implementation – designed to encourage original equipment manufacturers to provide controllers with the necessary interface (HILCONNECT) and validated models.
• HILTEST enabled lifecycle engineering – provides an integrated and automatize test solution to enable verification and validation throughout the design, build, commission and operate process. 
• Web-based training and support – enables unfamiliar users to adopt and use the solution.

Microgrids offer significant promise to answer DoD requirements for energy security and resiliency. In addition, these systems can reduce operating costs behind the meter, and generate revenues by providing services to utilities and/or participating in energy markets. However, adoption has been hindered by high costs and slow acquisition due to a disconnected design processes, interoperability issues between legacy equipment (“brown field”) and new equipment, lack of flexibility and modularity to incorporate evolving requirements, and lack of ability to integrate and control multiple microgrids on the same installation.

Integrated Model-Based Design Process addresses each of these shortcomings and the demonstration (see Figure 1) will show significant reductions in project risk, cost savings and increased operational effectiveness.