Can microgrids help prepare the workforce for a new energy economy?

This paper explains how microgrids help flip these problems into opportunities to prepare the workforce for the emerging new energy economy, while yielding low cost, reliable and clean sources of energy.

Are campus microgrids a good idea?

Increasingly, campus microgrids are also being used as an educational and sustainability awareness tool, connecting technology to students and community. Although microgrids have been deployed for more than a century—and many have been installed at campuses nationwide— broad awareness of the technology is lacking.

Are Siemens microgrids a good choice for community college students?

Infographic credit: Siemens Microgrids also provide community college students outstanding opportunities for training in technical jobs in the new energy economy. They have the potential to attract students back to the vital hands-on workforce.

When should a microgrid be programmed to use market supply?

The microgrid is typically programmed to use market supply when it is cheaper than on-site generation. Further, during extreme pricing, such as the Texas example above, the microgrid can be programmed to shed load to avoid the need to purchase super-premium power supply.

Which states offer grants for microgrids?

Some states, including California, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York, also have made grants available for microgrids. Hawaii and California are considering microgrid service tarifs to help foster their development.

Why do universities need a modular microgrid?

Fred James, National Business Director for Higher Education at Siemens, pointed out that this modularity also enables microgrid owners to adopt the latest technology as it becomes commercially available. “It is hard to predict which technologies will prove optimal to meet a university’s carbon neutrality goal, often 30 years in the future.