Continuing yesterday's blog

Here's a second look at the story provided by our newest radio co-host, Seth Handy, Environmental Lawyer, who, by the way, did a great job on his first broadcast today on WARL 1320 AM, as we explore the power of microgrids:   ..."Microgrids are the foundation for a revolutionary electric system that ensures reliability by focusing on the customer. By creating a feedback loop between the utility and the end user, microgrids become powerful tools in supply and demand. Just as knowledge has been revolutionized by the power of individual contributions (Wikipedia has had millions of participants that shape our collective knowledge), our energy ecosystem can be transformed similarly. Because of the importance of these evolving systems, RMI is partnering with key institutions to prove that creative microgrid application can be as reliable as the status quo, if not more so.

The Power of Microgrids

Microgrids are subsets of the greater grid and usually include their own generation (such as photovoltaics, wind turbines, and fuel cells), their own demand (lights, fans, televisions, computers, etc.) and often the ability to modulate it to match price and priority, and perhaps even storage capability (such as batteries or the distributed storage in electrified vehicles). What makes the microgrid unique is that it intelligently coordinates and balances all these technologies. When the microgrid detects a sudden drop in solar generation, it can ramp up a backup natural gas cogenerator or even temporarily and unobtrusively turn off noncritical air conditioners. If wind generation exceeds demand, the microgrid can signal the system and users to charge additional electric vehicles. This intricate dance among supply, demand, and storage can enable a cleaner and more resilient future.

Microgrids are already demonstrating their ability to manage variable generation. Microgrid projects from Korea to Denmark to California and Hawai‘i all carry the singular purpose of demonstrating the art of the possible. Denmark has been piloting a “cellular” grid structure—stress-tested annually by pulling microgrids’ plug from the main grid to make sure critical loads stay on (they do). Cuba used microgrids, distributed generation, and efficient use to cut its serious blackout days from 224 in 2005 to zero in 2007—and then sustain vital services in 2008 while two hurricanes in two weeks shredded the eastern grid.

The microgrid at UCSD has already proved that it strengthens the university’s — and the local grid’s — resilience. In 2009, when the rest of the utility grid was threatened by wildfires, UCSD was able to go from a 3 megawatt net importer to a 2 megawatt net exporter in 30 minutes by turning down its 4,000 non-critical thermostats by a few degrees while increasing onsite generation. UCSD’s actions played a critical role in keeping the whole area’s lights on..."

Do you want to learn more about microgrids and the future role they will play in our energy generation?  Tune in next week, Weds 12-1p, EST as we do part two of our radio series with Seth and other energy experts.