Why Islanding is the Secret to Resilient Energy Systems?

•  Voltage and Frequency Sensing – If the grid experiences sudden voltage or frequency fluctuations, it signals instability.
•  Synchrophasors & Smart Meters – Advanced sensors provide real-time data on grid conditions.
•  Communication with the Utility – Some systems receive direct signals from the grid operator about planned outages or emergencies.

At ElectricFish, we leverage Voltage and Frequency Sensing on our device to detect local outages. For periodic data, we utilize SAIFI (System Average Interruption Frequency Index) to monitor the grid and instantly analyze when to be prepared for a transition into island mode.

Phase 2: Immediate Disconnection: Why It’s Critical
Once an outage is detected, the system must immediately disconnect from the grid to ensure safety and reliability. This prevents backfeeding, which could endanger utility workers repairing the grid. It also protects equipment from sudden fluctuations that could damage sensitive components and ensures a stable, independent power source with consistent voltage and frequency. ElectricFish’s chargers seamlessly isolate themselves using Contactors, also called Transfer switches, ensuring stored battery power is used safely.

Phase 3: Communication with Utilities: Staying in Sync
After islanding, microgrids don’t just operate in isolation—they coordinate with the grid operator to ensure a smooth reconnection when it’s safe.
Automated Grid Syncing – Once grid power is restored, our system matches its voltage avoiding using a strategy called droop control, frequency, and phase to reconnect safely.
Data Sharing – Utilities may monitor energy usage in real time, ensuring stability across the network.

Phase 4: Supplying Power in Island Mode
A microgrid can’t function without energy sources. This is where Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) come in. A DER, or a Distributed Energy Resource is any small-scale power source or storage system located close to where it’s used. Microgrids contain and manage multiple DERs, such as Solar panels, Battery storage, Wind turbines, EVs with bi-directional charging. At ElectricFish, our battery-integrated chargers act as DERs within a microgrid, storing energy and instantly supplying it during outages.

Phase 5: Reconnecting to the Grid
Once power is restored, ElectricFish’s system: Verifies grid stability before reconnecting, synchronizes voltage and frequency for a seamless transition, and can export energy if needed, helping stabilize the grid.

The International Space Station is never connected to a power grid—yet it runs continuously. That means it’s always in island mode, generating and storing its own power using solar and batteries to keep astronauts safe and systems operational. Here on Earth, microgrids work the same way—but instead of floating in space, they power neighborhoods, businesses and homes when the grid goes down. At ElectricFish, our battery-integrated EV chargers island instantly—charging cars and keeping energy flowing to the neighborhood when it’s needed most. ⚡🚗