The proposed microgrid would include a controller that coordinates the operation of multiple distributed energy resources (DERs), providing Culver City with a fully renewable, cost-effective, and resilient energy supply, while also achieving its Zero Net Energy goals.
Culver City’s public works director / city engineer Charles Herbertson said: “As the next step in becoming a more sustainable City, we’re considering the development of our own microgrid.
“It’s an exciting, emerging technology that would provide our City with the resiliency that we need to operate the sites as independent emergency shelters, while drawing on local, renewable sources of power instead of carbon-emitting fossil fuels.”
Willdan CEO and chairman Tom Brisbin said: “We’ve provided the City with engineering services and municipal staffing for many years and are familiar with the City’s infrastructure and operations.
“We’re excited to combine this knowledge with our microgrid expertise to provide a viable solution to the City’s clean energy and sustainability needs. We plan to work closely with the local electric utility to identify and remove roadblocks to commercializing microgrids in the State of California.”
As part of the study, Willdan will develop a preliminary design that meets the City’s technical, operating, and financial needs. Willdan will also provide the City with financial and environmental metrics, an implementation roadmap, and specifications to assist in grant applications and bid procurement should the next phase of the project be approved. The study is scheduled for completion in early 2019.
Source: Company Press Release
