Microgrids
The future of clean energy
Microgrid Applications
Campuses
Communities and Affordable Housing
Multi-use Buildings
Healthcare
Critical Infrastructure
Military
Energy Resiliency 101
What is a microgrid?
A microgrid consists of power generation and storage and is able to allow its loads to be grid-connected or ‘islanded’ from the grid during an outage to effectively and independently function in an off-grid application. The energy independence that microgrids provide allows for more than just keeping the lights on – it’s an opportunity for businesses to protect their revenue, hospitals to continue the service of life-preserving electronics, critical infrastructure such as fire stations and police stations to serve their communities under any circumstances, vulnerable populations to have their refrigerated food and medicine protected during lengthy outage events, and much more.
We also provided two EV chargers connected to the critical load panel in order to ensure ‘fuel’ for transportation if gas stations become inoperable, which is exactly what can happen in the event of long-term grid outages.
As was the case in Puerto Rico in 2017 in the aftermath of two extreme hurricanes, a power outage could mean more than simply losing your lights. Homes lose safe access to food and drinking water, as well as heating and cooling, and lives can senselessly be lost. Businesses lose profit and security, with losses compounding exponentially the longer the outage lasts.
Beyond weather, accidents and intentional attacks are becoming more and more frequent. In a study by Centrica Business Solutions, of 300 businesses surveyed across the US last year with every state represented, 92% have experienced energy failures over the past 12 months. These threats emphasize the need for investment in resiliency and preparedness, rather than relief and repair. This project highlights that need, even in land-locked Colorado.
Microgrid Spotlight
Building the future
Keeping the lights on
Independent Power Systems can develop your project from start to finish. We are consultants, developers, engineers, and contractors. We understand the complex financing structures, business models, and policy structures that influence feasibility so that the development phase of your project is as smooth as possible. We utilize robust, state-of-the-art technology because we prioritize building community resilience that is long-lasting and generates a high return.