The article presents an overview of knowledge in the field of energy microgrids as smart structures enabling energy self-sufficiency, with particular emphasis on decarbonisation. Based on a review of the literature and technical solutions, the characteristics have been classified and, emphasising the potential for integrating different technologies within microgrid structures, the role that microgrids and their users can play in the functioning of the energy system has been defined. Energy microgrids can be the pillar on which smart energy structures and smart grids, including energy systems using multiple energy carriers, will be based. Microgrids can guarantee energy self-sufficiency within their area of operation and support the entire energy system in this respect. Sensors that respond to both electrical and non-electrical quantities must play a special role in such structures, as they form the technical basis for the functioning of the smart energy sector.
Keywords: ancillary services; decarbonisation; distributed generation; energy management system; energy storage; microgrids; smart grid.