Distributed Energy Resources – Microgrids

Summary

The script discusses the challenges of energy supply and demand in the face of technological advancements, introducing distributed energy resources (DER) as a solution. DER systems, which include alternative energy sources, energy storage, and inverters, offer businesses a reliable, affordable, and clean way to meet energy demands. The script outlines steps for implementing DER, emphasizing the benefits of increased reliability, reduced costs, and environmental sustainability, and suggests contacting experts for further assistance.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The way businesses use energy is evolving with new technologies, but this can disrupt the balance of energy supply and demand, posing risks to productivity and revenue.
• 🔌 Traditional energy generation relies on large, remote power stations that use various sources, including coal, gas, nuclear, and renewables, and deliver energy through a complex grid system.
• 💡 The grid's reliability can be compromised, leading to situations where facilities may not receive power despite demand, impacting production and revenue.
• 🌟 Distributed Energy Resources (DER) offer an alternative, allowing businesses to generate and store energy on-site for more efficient use during peak times.
• 🔄 DER systems consist of alternative energy sources, energy storage units, and an inverter and distribution unit that manage energy flow within the facility.
• 🌞 Facilities with solar and wind power can maintain production during grid outages, but storage is essential for when these sources are unavailable.
• 🔌 Advanced inverters, such as island inverters, can disconnect from the grid for safety while continuing to power the facility, preventing 'islanding'.
• 🔄 A control unit directs energy to where it's needed, sending it to the facility during high demand and to storage during low demand or surplus.
• 🔋 Energy storage units, typically batteries, store excess energy for future use, enhancing the value of the DER system and enabling microgrid capabilities.
• 🛠️ Implementing a DER system involves conducting an energy assessment, understanding peak usage, and considering equipment and conditions necessary for energy production and storage.
• 🌿 DER systems are beneficial for the bottom line and the environment, offering reliability, cost savings, and clean, renewable energy options.

Q & A

How is the traditional energy supply system described in the script?

The traditional energy supply system is described as having large energy-generating stations scattered around the state, usually in remote areas, which produce energy using various sources such as coal, gas, nuclear, and renewable energy. Energy is then delivered to end-users through complex transmission and distribution systems known as the grid.

What challenges does the current energy grid face according to the script?

The script mentions that the current energy grid faces challenges in meeting the increasing demand for electrical energy, which can lead to problems that put companies at risk of decreased productivity and lost revenue.

What is the alternative solution presented in the script to meet a facility's energy demands?

The script presents distributed energy resources as an alternative solution, which can help a business use energy more efficiently by creating and storing it on-site for use at peak operating times.

What are the components of a distributed energy system as described in the script?

The components of a distributed energy system include alternative energy sources for electricity production, energy storage units, and an inverter and distribution unit that controls how energy is distributed on-site.

How does an inverter function in a distributed energy system?

An inverter in a distributed energy system converts the direct current produced by most alternative energy sources into the alternating current required by business equipment.

What is the purpose of preventing islanding in inverters?

Islanding prevention in inverters is primarily for the safety of grid workers, ensuring that power production on-site does not continue while the grid is down.

What is an 'Island inverter' and how does it differ from a standard inverter?

An 'Island inverter' is designed to disconnect from the grid for safety while continuing on-site power production, unlike standard inverters that prevent islanding to ensure grid worker safety.

What role does a control unit play in a distributed energy system?

A control unit acts as the hub to route where the energy goes next, sending it out to the facility during high demand and routing surplus energy to a storage unit during low demand.

How can a distributed energy system reduce electricity costs for a business?

A distributed energy system can reduce electricity costs by allowing the business to purchase less energy from the grid, especially during peak times of use, and by avoiding demand charges.

What are some steps a business should take to implement a distributed energy system?

Steps include conducting a thorough energy assessment, obtaining a full year of electric bill data, assessing peak energy use, determining barriers to energy improvements, considering equipment needs for energy production and storage, and evaluating other considerations such as electrical service and wiring.

How can a business get assistance with assessing the effectiveness and cost of distributed energy resources?

A business can contact the Clean Energy and Transportation Initiative or STEADY at WWC ETI education org to be put in touch with an expert who can provide assistance.