The definition of a “microgrid” is somewhat elusive. Generally, any collection of generators and loads that are not tied to the grid, and are expected to operate autonomously can be considered a microgrid. The microgrid can sometimes tie into the grid, and sometimes be “islanded” or separated from the grid, or may be entirely “off the grid” meaning never tied to the grid.
Benefits can include:
- Increase Resilience – utilize energy storage and other distributed generation resources to keep facility operational in the case of a grid event
- Reduce Energy costs – utilize energy storage to avoid demand charge costs, optimize time of use, participate in demand response, and participate in ancillary services programs
- Increase Sustainability – energy storage allows you to increase self-consumption and align energy consumption with grid impacts
- Power quality – leverage energy storage to minimize impact of localized voltage and frequency issues
- Virtual power plants – energy storage allows participation in aggregated peak shaving programs
NEC explores the benefits of microgrids and a few examples of solar and storage options in Tennessee, Massachusetts and Kanas City in a new microgrid one-pager. Explore the needs of your behind-the-meter-applications with NEC.