Why should you invest in a microgrid?

Enterprises are more motivated than ever to control energy costs and increase sustainability, while the utility grids they rely on grow more vulnerable due to aging infrastructure, extreme weather, and rising energy demand. A microgrid can help your organization achieve its goals and control its energy future – with or without capital investment.

How does a microgrid work?

When the price of utility power peaks under high demand, the microgrid can automatically switch your loads to on-site energy instead. If excess power is generated or stored on the microgrid, you can participate in demand response programs by selling energy to the utility, easing overall demand on the grid. 10.

What drives microgrid development?

Resilience, efficiency, sustainability, flexibility, security, and reliability are key drivers for microgrid developments. These factors motivate the need for integrated models and tools for microgrid planning, design, and operations at higher and higher levels of complexity.

Are microgrids a viable business model?

The ownership and business models of microgrids are still evolving. Microgrids are now emerging from lab benches and pilot demonstration sites into commercial markets, driven by technological improvements, falling costs, a proven track record, and growing recognition of their benefits.

Should a microgrid be integrated with a utility grid?

To do this seamlessly, the microgrid should be integrated with the utility’s automation systems at the substation and distribution levels. By connecting a microgrid to the utility grid as a DER, you can help increase the role of renewables on the grid and improve grid resilience.

Are microgrids self-contained?

But because microgrids are self-contained, they may operate in “island mode,” meaning they function autonomously and deliver power on their own. They usually are comprised of several types of distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar panels, wind turbines, fuel cells and energy storage systems.