GRP|WEGMAN

Contributor | Eric Shields, Director of Renewables, GRP|WEGMAN

‍

A microgrid is a localized energy system that integrates distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar photovoltaics (PV), battery storage, fuel cells, and backup generators to serve the energy needs of a defined area. By allowing airports to generate, store, and manage a significant portion of their own electricity on-site, microgrids offer a host of benefits that align with key airport priorities.

First and foremost, microgrids greatly enhance the resilience of airport electrical systems. With on-site generation, storage and sophisticated controls, a well-designed microgrid can continue to provide power to critical airport systems even in the event of a grid outage. This is especially valuable for airports, where even brief disruptions can have cascading impacts on flight operations, passenger experience, and revenue.

In addition to bolstering resilience, airport microgrids can meaningfully reduce energy costs and environmental footprint. Airports have substantial open space suitable for solar PV, which has become highly cost-competitive with traditional grid power in many markets. By self-generating renewable electricity and reducing reliance on grid power, especially during peak demand periods, airports can realize significant savings on energy expenditures. Solar PV also reduces airport greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to sustainability goals.

The benefits of airport microgrids extend beyond the airport itself. By reducing airport demand on the grid, microgrids help to relieve stress on utility infrastructure, especially during peak summer months. This can improve overall grid stability and reduce the need for costly transmission and distribution upgrades, ultimately benefiting all ratepayers.

Developing a successful airport microgrid requires careful planning and execution. Key considerations include:

• Load assessment | A detailed inventory of critical and non-critical airport loads, including temporal load profiles.

• DER optimization | Modeling and analysis to determine the optimal mix, capacity, and siting of solar PV, storage, and other DERs based on load profiles, available space, and other constraints.

• Controls and integration | Specification of microgrid control systems and integration with existing airport energy infrastructure and building management systems.

• Regulatory compliance | Navigation of interconnection processes, permitting, and other regulatory requirements, which can vary substantially by jurisdiction.

• Business model | Exploration of ownership, financing, and operational models for the microgrid, which could involve airport ownership, third-party developers, or hybrid approaches.

While microgrid development can be complex, airports are well-positioned to capture the benefits. In addition to ample physical space and consistent load profiles, airports often have access to grant funding as well as attractive financing.

For small and mid-size airports eyeing a competitive edge, microgrids represent a powerful tool to enhance energy resilience, reduce costs and emissions, and contribute to the stability of local electric grids. With a strategic partnership and smart planning with GRP|WEGMAN, forward-thinking airports can leverage the microgrid opportunity to power continued success.

‍