Microgrids help more than they hurt

Abstract

Where did the myth that microgrids are going to be the end of utilities start? We use the word myth specifically. A myth is a work of fiction, a story that no one can explain or trace back to a fact. We have seen the myth that microgrids are a threat to utilities grow more common in conversations at conferences, in publications, and on social media. We can make assumptions about how the myth was started. Microgrids are becoming a popular idea, with analysts forecasting billions of dollars in revenue potential over the next five years. Major weather events that knock out service for millions of customers are sparking discussions on the reliability and quality delivered by the electricity utilities. New technologies such as energy storage (ES), fuel cells, renewable generation, and grid automation are making the idea that customers can own, control, and operate their own power system(s) a growing reality.