A simulation and optimisation study: Towards a decentralised microgrid, using real world fluctuation data

► Decarbonised electricity systems are constrained by intermittency in supply and demand, microgrids can reduce fluctuations. ► Supply and demand fluctuation, microgrid size, configuration, management options and optimisation criteria are investigated. ► A mixed-renewables microgrid system can reduce demand fluctuations and improve energy balance. ► Peak demand hour fluctuations were reduced by up to 19% with one renewable and four storage units per household. ► Demand on macrogrid power supply was reduced by 16%, CO2 emissions were reduced by 10%.