So, how can a microgrid scale beyond localized needs? Let’s break down the components of a microgrid, explore its scalability, and see just how expansive these systems can truly be.
What Makes Up a Microgrid?
Today’s microgrid consists of several key components that work together to provide reliable and resilient energy to a grouping of connected loads:
- Energy Generation – Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) such as solar panels or natural gas, HVO or diesel generators that generate energy.
- Energy Storage – Battery storage systems that store excess energy for later use, ensuring grid stability.
- Control System – A smart management system that optimizes energy distribution and efficiency.
The scalability of a microgrid depends on these resources. A robust combination of generation sources and storage solutions allows the system to expand as energy demands grow.
How Large Can a Microgrid Get?
As we discussed in Myth 1, microgrids can go much further than ever before. Modern custom microgrid solutions can scale to support larger loads. This flexibility means microgrids are increasing resilience across wider areas while decreasing spatial needs.
This ability to expand is not limited to physical size. The energy output of a microgrid is determined by its design and resource capacity. Microgrids can generate between 75 kilowatts and several megawatts, providing islanded power for a few hours to extended periods of time.
Microgrids for Remote Facilities
Providing demand restoration services quickly to rural areas can be challenging, so these communities rely on microgrids to ensure essential energy supply. While for remote locations without any access to the macro grid, microgrids can serve as the only option for reliable energy.
Mobile microgrids offer even greater flexibility. Whether it is for temporary power during building projects, disaster relief or special events, these transportable systems are enabling energy independence at new distances.
While space and capacity requirements may still be factors in a microgrid design, they are no longer as limiting as they once were. Energy density advancements have significantly reduced the constraints of space and capacity, allowing microgrids to be tailored to a wide range of applications and enhancing their ability to provide resilient and reliable power solutions. This newfound flexibility is especially for mission-critical services which are essential to society.
Real-World Examples of Large-Scale Microgrid Solutions
To showcase the scalability of microgrids, consider these case studies:
- City of Bennettsville – A microgrid providing power resiliency for an entire community.
- Alabama Smart Neighborhood – A smart neighborhood utilizing demand response software.
- Ocracoke Island – An independent microgrid ensuring power security for an isolated island.
These examples illustrate how microgrids can be adaptable energy solutions that meet a wide range of needs.
Microgrids: A Scalable Solution for the Future
Modern microgrids have outgrown the misconception that they only serve localized energy needs. They are scalable, adaptable, and capable of supporting entire communities. Whether expanding an existing microgrid or designing a large-scale energy system, microgrids play a key role in building resilient and reliable energy strategies.
Want to learn more about scalable microgrid solutions? Contact our experts today to explore how microgrids can meet your energy needs at scale.