Article written and supplied by Kerri Stewart, Chief Strategy Officer at Miller Electric Company, Platinum Sponsors of MOVE America 2024 at the Austin Convention Center, 24-25 September, Austin, TX. Get more exclusive insights from Kerri Stewart at the event.
Recent U.S. Chamber analysis describes escalating electricity prices across the nation have become a pressing concern. High Energy consuming technologies such as AI, data centers, and advanced manufacturing, paired with the growth of electric vehicles (EVs), are putting tremendous pressure on our existing grids. This trend highlights the urgent need for innovation and alternative energy solutions to mitigate costs, increase reliability, and improve grid resiliency.
At Miller EV Solutions, we are on the front lines of this energy revolution. We witness firsthand the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving landscape. The increasing demand for energy is not just a technological issue; it is a public policy spotlight that requires immediate attention.
The Distributed Energy and MicroGrid Solution
Distributed energy resources (DERs) and microgrid systems as well as battery storage are proving to be a potent combination for energy and redundancy. They are positioned to transform our energy ecosystem. Distributed energy resources like solar panels and wind turbines create a needed shift away from our standard power generation systems. Thus generating energy closer to where it is consumed, which would allow DERs to alleviate strain on the current grid and enable consumers to become active participants in the energy landscape.
Then there are Microgrids. These are self-contained energy networks capable of operating independently or in combination with the grid. These systems act as a safety net during grid outages. They ensure uninterrupted power supply to critical facilities such as hospitals, data centers, and other emergency services. The integration of battery storage for these systems is crucial. They are able to capture excess energy generated by DERs during off-peak hours and dispatch that energy during high peak hours. This also offsets the need for the consumption of fossil fuels. Redundancy, achieved through multiple energy sources and backup systems, ensures a continuous power supply even if one component fails.
The Benefits
This approach would generate:
- Cost savings by reducing energy costs through localized generation and efficient energy use.
- Energy reliability through redundancy and an uninterrupted power supply.
- Sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.
- Consumer empowerment by providing greater control over their energy sources and patterns of consumption.
- Energy independence which would reduce dependence on centralized power generation and fossil fuels.
- Resiliency by providing the ability to maintain power during extreme weather events or similar.
A Call to Action
With the combination of government incentives, corporate sustainability commitments, and the easing of supply chain constraints, we are presented with a unique window of opportunity.
It is time to seize the opportunity to accelerate the adoption of DERs and microgrids. By investing in these technologies now, we are truly able to address growing energy issues. We are able to build a future where energy is decentralized, more resilient, and extensively more responsible.
The time to invest is now. The advantages are clear! From cost savings and reliability to environmental sustainability and economic growth. Embracing DER solutions and microgrids creates a more resilient and prosperous future. Lets capture this opportunity to transform our energy infrastructure and ensure a reliable energy supply for generations to come.
Don’t forget to catch Miller EV as the Platinum Sponsors at MOVE America 2024 at the Austin Convention Center, 24-25 September, Austin, TX for more exclusive insights on the future of energy.
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