MIRA-ESTE: specific, innovative microgrids solutions (accounting for environmental, social, technological and economic aspects) for isolated rural areas of Ecuador (MIRA-ESTE)

A long-term significant, sustainable increase of renewables share in the energy mix of Ecuador can be realized through the application of microgrids (MG) technologies in remote areas without grid connection. MGs are local, decentralized, sustainable solutions for smart energy with little environmental impact. The project aims at improving research and education practices related to sustainable MGs, through two specific objectives:

(I) ESPE, Dept. Electrical and Electronics Eng. becomes a recognized hub for research and education on MG technologies potentially stimulating  energy sector in general and MG-technologies in particularthrough 3 MSc.-research projects (financed through  this and new academic courses and common research of ESPE and KU Leuven staff; (II) Stakeholders have access to the information/training through research program for designing, testing and training on isolated MGs within a research/education framework with realistic, hands-on education/training of stakeholders in microgrids technologies.