With microgrid technology becoming more robust, and component prices dropping, it's not surprising to see a public purpose microgrid hit the ‘lucky nine.’ Nine-year payback, that is. The Montclair Township microgrid project is the case in point. With microgrid energy savings projected at about $1.2 million annually, the project's payback … [Read more...]
California lawmakers voted this week to extend the state's cap-and-trade program to 2030, a move expected to boost microgrid development, especially when coupled with other climate plays. Backed by Gov. Jerry Brown, the legislation won passage by a two-thirds vote in the Assembly and the Senate. By itself the extension isn't expected to … [Read more...]
Oregon-based utility Pacific Power is offering funds for clean energy projects, with emphasis on renewable microgrids, electric vehicle charging, energy storage systems and other advanced energy that serves communities. The funding comes from the utility’s Blue Sky program, which has provided $10 million for clean energy projects since 2006. … [Read more...]
It's not only the Russians who pose risks to power grid cybersecurity. While they do pose some risks, there are more serious threats, especially to unprotected small- to mid-size energy companies, says a new report from the Institute for Critical Infrastructure Technology (ICIT). “There's a lot of hype surrounding the cybersecurity of the energy … [Read more...]
Black & Veatch has been awarded a contract to build a microgrid for Shell International Exploration & Production Company in Houston. The microgrid will use solar photovoltaics and a natural gas reciprocating engine, along with an advanced battery storage system. The microgrid will be located at the Shell Technology Center Houston … [Read more...]
Not so long ago, mentioning the term non-wires alternatives evoked a “Huh?” But now in New York, non-wires alternatives are becoming standard utility business practice, as evidenced Thursday by an important state Public Service Commission vote. The commission approved an indefinite extension of Consolidated Edison's Brooklyn-Queens Demand … [Read more...]
Siemens and AES have joined forces to create Fluence, a joint venture with an ambitious goal to capture major segments of the energy storage market worldwide. The deal brings together two mega-energy companies. Siemens offers a range of energy services and technology in 160 countries. AES serves 10 million utility customers and operates 30 … [Read more...]
Players in the booming energy storage market are like contestants running the board on "Jeopardy” before solving the puzzle on "Wheel of Fortune.” Investors are taking risks and companies are striking deals in rapid rounds, chasing a big jackpot that is expected to reach $20.5 billion (Navigant Research) to $45 billion (AES) globally by … [Read more...]
A new law opens the door for more fuel cell projects in Connecticut, with the state placing value on their ability to enhance electric reliability and resiliency. A hub of U.S. fuel cell manufacturing, the state already has several fuel cell microgrids, including projects for the town of Woodbridge, University of Bridgeport, and Hartford’s … [Read more...]
With hundreds of small-scale energy storage applications expected in response to California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program, a new bill aims to help confused cities, towns and counties permit energy storage systems efficiently. Sponsored by the California Energy Storage Alliance, AB 546 would create a handbook of best practices for … [Read more...]
The commercial and industrial market is evolving into one of the most innovative microgrid segments yet. And choosing the right microgrid control system is essential for ensuring reliability and for reducing cost and risk. In this week’s Industry Perspectives, Clark Wiedetz, microgrid director for Siemens Energy Management, explores how to determine if a microgrid is right for your company.
New cost-effective approaches of coupling energy storage to existing PV arrays with a DC-to-DC converter can help maximize production and profits for existing and new utility-scale installations. Six distinct solar plus storage use cases are discussed in this paper. To learn more download this guide.
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