Microgrids to the Rescue
Microgrids to the Rescue
Already 1.5 billion people worldwide lack electricity supply. The crisis is already a big problem without factoring in how the weather can devastate the energy supply.
In October 2017 Puerto Rico saw just that. Hurricane Maria
ripped through the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico on a large scale. Along with the
lives that were lost, the energy infrastructure was demolished and Puerto Rico
lost 100% of its power usage. Some say the infrastructure is beyond repair. The damage made the problems in Puerto Rico worse causing
them to file for bankruptcy with more then $9 million in debt.
The Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority “PREPA” sought
outside assistance to help repair the energy infrastructure, but the efforts
failed. The PREPA signed a contract with Whitefish Energy to repair the power
grid but the contract was cancelled.
Focus has been shifted as a solution has been suggested by
developing renewable energy. A series of microgrids have been developed. A
microgrid is an energy system consisting of distributed energy sources. Its
purpose is to provide local, reliable and affordable energy. Microgrids perform
control over energy sources, enabling autonomous and automatic self-healing
operations. Microgrids can help with primary power grid failure by working independently.
When operated with the main grid, the microgrid can produce energy locally and
draws less power from the main grid. Wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and small
hydros will be used with microgrids because renewable energy resources are
decentralized.
The used of renewable energy can help Puerto Rico redevelop its
energy infrastructure and the energy resources that are developed by the
Commonwealth.
Portland is doing their part to help heal the world by strengthening communities by delivering renewable energy and safe clean water. Join as at Green Empowerment, where you can donate, volunteer, intern and most of all do your part in healing our communities.
Portland is doing their part to help heal the world by strengthening communities by delivering renewable energy and safe clean water. Join as at Green Empowerment, where you can donate, volunteer, intern and most of all do your part in healing our communities.
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