There are numerous reasons campuses are beginning to implement smart microgrids (small-scale versions of centralized electricity systems). Many are interested in improving the ability to measure and reduce energy usage by tying together a campuses power source, transmission, distribution and consumption into one system. For institutions investing in on campus renewable energy systems and who have made commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, smart microgrids are an idea to consider.
Below are recent microgrid stories we (and others) have covered on this growing trend:
Santa Clara U Completes First Phase of Microgrid Installation. Noteworthy: "Santa Clara University has estimated that once its system is complete, they will be able to reduce energy consumption by 50 percent and save about 20 percent in energy costs. "
Illinois Institute of Technology Research into Microgrids and "Perfect Power"
Noteworthy: "The system consists of smart microgrids featuring a High-Reliability Distribution System (HRDS) loop design and redundant electricity and will allow IIT to eliminate costly outages, minimize power disturbances, moderate an ever-growing demand, and curb greenhouse gas emissions."
UC San Diego Partners on Energy Optimization and Microgrid Project
More on UCSD is in the article "Microgrids Get Big"
Noteworthy: "[UC San Diego] a leader in climate change research is also home to what is likely the most advanced microgrid in North America. As such, it aims to highlight how small, semi-independent power grids could help solve the problem of how to reliably integrate renewable energy into distribution systems, boost grid security and even make money for their owners, operators and developers."
First microgrid in Washington, D.C. at Howard University. "Howard University plans Washington’s first microgrid"
Also, an example of incorporating smart microgrids into the curriculum is described here; West Virginia U Institute of Technology Students Study Microgrid Technology
These investments in research and implementation of microgrid technology are significant and have the potential to play an important role in campus sustainability, particularly for campuses who are participating in climate action planning and have set greenhouse gas reduction goals (as the 670+ campuses participating in the American College & University Presidents' Climate Commitment have done).
Is your campus considering implementing a smart microgrid? Perhaps your campus has information to share? Please post a comment or email resources@aashe.org if you have thoughts or ideas to share.