Projections suggest that microgrids are set for exceptional growth in the coming years, alerting the related energy storage and renewable energy industries. However, questions still hang over microgrids potential to out value conventional grids in major markets. Renewable energy and energy storage technologies are becoming essential components of microgrids. Traditionally when the grid goes down, renewables such as PV are taken offline so they don’t back feed the grid and cause safety issues for line workers. With a microgrid and the right controllers in place, that’s no longer necessary. Microgrids also need some form of energy storage mechanism, for self-maintenance or time-shifting. These were 2 of the many points discussed during last month’s Renewable Energy World Conference, North America session titled Microgrids: Opportunities, Challenges, and Innovative Solutions. The event also recognized and projected the significant growth in the microgrid sector. John M. Carroll of IPERC (Intelligent Power & Energy Research Corporation) spoke to delegates about […]