ABB's Fabio Monachesi explains what an all-in-one solution for microgrids can achieve -- the kind of efficiency a conductor brings to an orchestra. Microgrids are localized low-voltage energy networks that can connect to the main grid or can operate as islands. Being low voltage makes them ideal for use with renewables, loads and energy storage … [Read more...]
Global Energy Leaders to Gather in Boston for IDEA2015
Global energy leaders from North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East will come together in Boston in June for the International District Energy Association’s 106th annual conference and trade show. Scheduled for June 28-July 1, the international forum will focus on shaping the next generation of energy for cities, as the utility industry … [Read more...]
Why the Time is Right for Microgrids
The time is right for microgrids. And it's not just to protect our power supply from severe storms, as our new Think Microgrid report explains. Here's an excerpt. It wasn’t just the severity of Superstorm Sandy (See related article) that led to today’s new emphasis on grid resiliency and microgrids; it was also the timing. A convergence of other … [Read more...]
How Should We Define Microgrids? As Energy Efficiency or Some other Animal?
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy does not consider microgrids when it ranks states each year on energy efficiency polices. Microgrids would benefit from being included. State leaders exhibit quite a bit of pride in a high ranking on the scorecard; it’s a good motivational tool to encourage effective energy efficiency policy and … [Read more...]
The Role that Lighting Controls Play in Microgrids
By Andy Wakefield, Lutron Electronics The Challenge The smart grid, a reference to the modernization of the national electricity supply system, is an automated electric power system that monitors and controls grid activities, ensuring the two-way flow of electricity and information between power plants and consumers—and all points in … [Read more...]