Johannesburg South Africa Microgrid System

Overview
Where: Johannesburg, South Africa
Purpose: To reduce carbon emissions and take a significant step towards Cummins 2030 Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) goals
Supply: PowerCommand Microgrid Control® MGC900, 700 AC kWp of Solar power, Two KTA 38G5 Diesel Generators

Cummins South Africa installs Microgrid System in Power Hub Headquarters

Cummins is actively pursuing renewable energy initiatives on a global scale as part of its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. In the Africa & Middle East region, Cummins South Africa recently accomplished a significant milestone by completing the commissioning of a Microgrid system. The installation of a Microgrid at the Cummins South Africa Power Hub HQ in Johannesburg represents a significant step towards environmental sustainability. By harnessing solutions like solar power, Cummins aims to achieve the 2030 goals outlined in the PLANET 2050 strategy, which includes a 50% reduction in absolute greenhouse gas emissions from its facilities and operations. This initiative aligns with Cummins’ dedication to addressing climate change.

Harnessing solar power for a sustainable future

The heart of the Microgrid system is Cummins’ Microgrid controller, the MGC900, that seamlessly integrates a total renewable power capacity of 821 kWp. This power is generated from 1522 solar panel arrays installed on the roof of the Power Hub building. The anticipated annual renewable energy production is an impressive 1.49 GWh, resulting in a significant annual CO2 emissions reduction of 585 Tons. To put this in perspective, it is equivalent to planting 26,873 trees.

Cutting-edge technology for optimal performance

The Microgrid system is fully monitored and controlled by Cummins’ advanced MGC900 controller. This controller provides a single interface for monitoring and controlling the entire Microgrid plant, which includes 1522 PV panels supported by 780 PV optimizers. The DC power generated is then efficiently converted to AC through (9) power inverters, capable of producing a peak AC power of 700kW.

The MGC900’s primary function is to balance all distributed energy assets, maximizing the output of renewable power and minimizing the total cost of ownership by reducing dependency on the grid power and reducing diesel consumption during grid outages. It does this by controlling the output power from the inverters and in emergency power situations, orchestrating the automatic transfer of the facility to and from standby generators.

Reducing operational costs for sustainable energy

Designed to reduce grid power consumption during the daytime and maximize renewable sources during grid absence, the MGC900 aims to lower the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) and the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). This strategic approach is geared towards minimizing the overall operational costs of the entire power plant.

The Microgrid controller enhances power resilience at South Africa during load shedding and grid power outages by harnessing renewable energy from the sun through the PV system, rather than relying solely on backup generators.

Smart monitoring and detailed analytics

The MGC900 provides a detailed information screen for each system asset, with intuitive touchscreen navigation. It features an animated one-line diagram tailored to represent the project’s single-line diagram. The controller also offers comprehensive real-time information, including system alarms, alarm history, and a sequence of events recorder for swift issue resolution. Additionally, it displays historical trends and data capture to track the usage of various assets, facilitating a thorough analysis of the entire system’s performance.

• Seamless Integration: The MGC900 seamlessly integrates with various components of the microgrid system, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Remote Monitoring and Control: Customers can remotely monitor and control the microgrid system, enhancing flexibility and control over their energy resources.
• Adaptive Optimization: The controller continuously optimizes system operation based on real-time data, ensuring maximum efficiency and cost savings.
• Scalability: Designed for scalability, the MGC900 accommodates future expansions or upgrades to the microgrid system with ease.
• Enhanced Reliability: With advanced diagnostics, the MGC900 enhances system reliability, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Expert commissioning for optimal performance

The Microgrid system’s commissioning was carried out by an expert from the Cummins Power Integration Center (PIC). A microgrid testing lab designed by Cummins leading engineers and microgrid advisors based in Fridley, Minnesota USA. Local support from Cummins’ New Energy Solutions Commissioning engineer further ensured seamless integration and optimal performance. For more information on Cummins PIC lab, please visit the website: Power Integration Center | Cummins Inc. and watch the virtual tour of the facility: Cummins Power Integration Center (PIC) Virtual Tour (youtube.com)

Cummins South Africa’s achievement in implementing this Microgrid system at the Power Hub HQ exemplifies the company’s commitment to sustainability and showcases the innovative solutions it brings to the forefront of the energy transition. The successful integration of renewable energy sources not only contributes to Cummins global environmental goals but also sets a standard for responsible and efficient power solutions in the Africa & Middle East ABO.

Authors: Timothy Allman, Medhat Mohamed