April 9, 2014
Microgrids, the localized, small-scale versions of today's expansive electric grid, are poised to evolve the nation's critical energy infrastructure. Whether communities are impacted by extreme weather events, energy security, or emergency preparedness, microgrids can work autonomously to restore and provide backup power even when the electric grid is nonexistent.
During this 90-minute web conference, Craig Miller of the NRECA’s Cooperative Research Network (CRN) and Kevin Schneider of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, introduced co-op leaders to the state of microgrid technology; explaining the drivers and the challenges of this technology and why co-ops need to be paying attention
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is planning to award substantial grants aimed at advancing grid resiliency. Speakers discussed DOE initiatives to engage and partner with co-ops, including the potential for national research, partnership, and collaboration.
