What is it about?
In this article, we propose a smart and organised way to bring renewable energy to Colombian communities that are not connected to the national electricity grid. What we did was design a data-driven architecture that allows for better monitoring and management of energy microgrids in these territories, taking advantage of resources such as the sun and wind. We focused on rural areas where access to electricity remains a major challenge, and we showed how technology can be adapted to these realities to make energy distribution more efficient, reliable, and sustainable. Our goal was to offer a solution that is not only technical but also useful and realistic for contexts such as Colombia.
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Why is it important?
This research is important because it responds to an urgent and real need: to bring reliable and clean energy to communities that are still disconnected from the national electricity grid. What makes it special is that it is not based on abstract assumptions, but on a deep understanding of the Colombian context, especially in rural and indigenous areas. Through the use of data and digital tools, we propose a more orderly and efficient way to operate renewable energy microgrids in these territories. Beyond the technical design, the contribution lies in demonstrating that it is possible to build smart energy solutions that truly adapt to the conditions of the territory, without imposing external models, and that help close historical gaps in energy access and equity.
Perspectives
Connecting technology with such an urgent need as access to reliable energy in many Colombian communities was, for me, one of the most valuable aspects of this research. Throughout the process, I came to understand that designing technical solutions goes far beyond innovation: it involves thoroughly understanding the territory, its limitations, and its possibilities. This project led me to reflect on the enormous potential of data to build energy systems that are more equitable, efficient, and adapted to historically excluded contexts. I hope this work serves as a starting point for new conversations and projects that promote a more equitable, sustainable, and locally focused energy transition.
Dr. Ramon Fernando Colmenares Quintero
Fundación Berstic and Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: A Data-Driven Architecture for Smart Renewable Energy Microgrids in Non-Interconnected Zones: A Colombian Case Study, Energies, December 2023, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/en16237900.
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