2025 TBEA Microgrid

Can microgrids improve energy resilience?

Since microgrids are not the only way to enhance energy resilience, communities may want to consider alternate resilience investment options, including hardening existing transmission and distribution systems, weatherizing power generation sources, and building additional distribution systems to provide energy supply redundancy.

How can remote communities benefit from Microgrid technology?

“Remote communities are well-positioned to demonstrate optimized microgrid technologies, including those that generate renewable energy locally. With the right design and innovation, microgrid solutions will help lower energy costs, improve energy resilience, and spur economic opportunities.”

How will the microgrids benefit the community?

Revenue generated by the microgrids will be reinvested into the community in several ways, including operation, maintenance, and future expansion of the microgrids, and as an emergency fund to bring solar energy to other low-income communities in the area.

What is microgrid funding?

This funding will bring replicable microgrid solutions to underserved and Indigenous communities in remote, rural, and islanded regions throughout the United States. Programs like this aim to ensure low-cost, clean energy is available to support and improve the lives of every American.

How much does a microgrid cost?

Microgrids are complex systems that require specialized skills to operate and maintain. Microgrids include controls and communication systems that contain cybersecurity risks. A 2018 study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that microgrids in the Continental U.S. cost an average of $2 million-$5 million per megawatt.

Are microgrids a good investment?

Microgrids that incorporate renewable energy resources can have environmental benefits in terms of reduced greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. In some cases, microgrids can sell power back to the grid during normal operations. Depending on the complexity, microgrids can have high upfront capital costs.