Announcements

Microgrid Institute Supports National Meeting on Tribal Pollution Prevention with Energy Storage

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Sept. 1, 2020: In cooperation with the Pala Band of Mission Indians, San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians, and Prosper Sustainably, Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr will join a national roundtable meeting on energy storage technologies and applications on Sept. 17, 2020. The meeting, sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is part of the Intertribal Pollution Prevention Project (TribalP2Action.org), which Microgrid Institute supports with energy assessment, project management, and stakeholder engagement services.  

Energy storage technologies are taking center stage as tribal businesses, governments, and other organizations seek to improve their self-reliance and resiliency against utility outages. Energy storage also can be used to prevent pollution and save money, and incentives currently available for some projects make storage investments more affordable than ever. In this 90-minute roundtable discussion, Mr. Burr and other roundtable participants will explore and discuss: energy storage technology options; pairing energy storage with renewables and microgrids; storage strategies; funding opportunities; and challenges for tribes in considering energy storage projects to reduce pollution and costs while increasing resiliency and self-reliance. Participation is free for representatives of tribal businesses, governments, and other organizations nationwide. REGISTER HERE

​Microgrid Institute Completes Massachusetts Community Microgrid Assessments

July 16, 2020: The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) accepted the final reports in feasibility assessments for proposed multi-user community microgrids in Boston, Pittsfield, and Palmer, Mass. Performed in partnership with S&C Electric under contract with MassCEC, the studies yielded insights into options and challenges for multi-user microgrids in Eversource and National Grid service territories. Please see our Resources page for access to the final report PDFs.

9th Microgrid Global Innovation Forum in Washington, D.C. to Examine Technology and Business Advances

​Microgrid Institute’s Michael Zimmer to discuss Massachusetts community microgrids March 18-20, 2019 event
:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::
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Jan. 21, 2019: Boston, Mass.: The global microgrid market size was valued at USD 3.76 billion in 2016, and is expected to reach USD 17.51 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 17.0%, according to Grand View Research. The drivers behind this include the need for greater grid reliability and resiliency, the integration and control of distributed energy resources into the grid, as well as the desire by commercial and industrial end users to control energy costs and adopt more on-site renewable energy generation. 
 
To explore key issues and opportunities in this field, the 9th Microgrid Global Innovation Forum – North America will be held on March 18-20, 2019 in Washington, D.C. (www.microgridinnovation.com).  The event brings together key thought leaders, utilities, energy providers, and other stakeholders to examine the latest technology developments and lessons learned in the design, implementation and operation of hybrid renewable energy microgrids.  
 
“This will be a tremendous opportunity to interact directly with companies at the cutting-edge of microgrid deployment,” says Daniel Coran, editor of the Smart Grid Observer and program manager of the Forum. “Top industry experts will be speaking who are pushing the envelope in terms of leveraging microgrids for grid resiliency, service flexibility, and DER integration.”
 
One such expert is Michael Zimmer, Washington Counsel for Microgrid Institute. READ MORE

Microgrid Institute launches MassCEC Community Microgrid feasibility assessments​

Boston, Pittsfield, and Palmer consider hybrid solar, hydro, CHP, and district energy options
July 31, 2018: Boston, Mass.: Microgrid Institute (MGI) this month kicked off a series of community microgrid feasibility studies that it will execute under a consulting agreement with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts – through the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC). In partnership with S&C Electric Co., the MGI Team serves as technical consultant for a series of three community microgrid feasibility studies in both Eversource and National Grid service territories. MGI leads the study team as prime contractor and program manager, with S&C providing microgrid modeling and analysis services.
 
Through the Community Microgrid Program, MassCEC awarded feasibility study and community engagement funding for 14 community microgrid feasibility studies across the state – with technical consulting support totaling up to $75,000 for each study. MassCEC convened community stakeholders and consulting teams in Worcester for a program kickoff meeting at the end of June. Subsequently, between July 16 and July 30, MGI initiated project site assessments in Boston, Pittsfield, and Palmer. Community partners supporting the project include, respectively, the City of Boston (Boston Planning and Development Agency), City of Pittsfield, and Town of Palmer, together with other government and commercial stakeholders. READ MORE

Microgrid Institute Team to Design Off-Grid Energy System for Minnesota DNR

​Hybrid Solar Microgrid to Sustain Remote Wildlife Management Area HQ
​June 5, 2018, St. Paul, Minn.: The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) selected a team led by Microgrid Institute to design and engineer a hybrid renewable/fossil-fueled microgrid at DNR’s 324,000-acre Red Lake Wildlife Management Area (WMA), in Lake of the Woods and Beltrami Counties near Minnesota’s border with Canada.

Microgrid Institute will lead the project as prime contractor and project manager. Microgrid Institute brings substantial experience with assessment, design, and development of microgrids for both grid-interconnected and off-grid applications. The team also includes EVS Inc., which will provide power system design and engineering services. EVS has provided civil and electrical engineering, land surveying, and environmental engineering services for many renewable energy projects throughout Minnesota and nationwide. Examples of EVS’s work in Minnesota include numerous community solar gardens, utility-scale solar projects, and other solar + storage designs, as well as construction projects in other sectors including the Interstate 35W bridge reconstruction, the Vikings US Bank Stadium, and the Gophers TCF Bank Stadium.

Also supporting the project team is Prof. Greg Mowry, director of the University of St. Thomas MSEE Program. Mowry is expected to provide expert inputs based on his experience with several remote off-grid microgrid projects, including a system designed and built for the Will Steger Wilderness Center in Ely, Minn. READ MORE

Microgrid Institute Releases Report on
Multi-Zone Microgrid Optimization

DOE-Funded R&D Project Designs, Tests Microgrid Controls
​for Maryland Communities
May 9, 2018, Montgomery County, Md.: On behalf of the project team, Microgrid Institute has released for public distribution the final technical report in the Olney Town Center Microgrid Control System R&D Project. The project, which included design, development, and testing of a control system for a multi-zone community microgrid, was supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Electricity, through the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL).

In the report, the project team presented the results of more than two years of research, development, and testing. Project results showed that a multi-zone microgrid control approach – managing distributed solar photovoltaics (PV), energy storage systems, and gas-fired combined heat and power (CHP) units in several independently islanding sub-systems – can effectively ensure the availability of resilient energy supplies in Mid-Atlantic communities.

Organized in four volumes, the 160-page report detailed: Technical design and configuration considerations for multi-zone microgrid systems; Analysis of test results; and Examination of regulatory and financial options for public-purpose microgrids in Maryland.  
Fig. 1: Multi-Zone Microgrid Overview
In a multi-zone community microgrid, critical loads in multiple areas – both adjacent and isolated – are supported with distributed energy resources (DER) and load-management systems. Separate interconnection systems for each zone enable safe formation of independent energy islands.
The Microgrid Institute-led project was one of seven that DOE supported in its competitive 2014 R&D funding program, “Microgrid Research, Development, and System Design” (FOA 0000997). The Olney Town Center project focused on research, design, development, and testing (in simulation) microgrid systems for Maryland communities, with Olney Town Center selected as the primary design-test area. In addition to technical factors, the project also examined regulatory and planning issues affecting potential for utility rate-base investments in Maryland public-purpose microgrids.

The project team was comprised of the following organizations:
  • Microgrid Institute (prime contractor, project manager, and principal investigator)
  • Green Energy Corp (microgrid control system R&D and development)
  • North Carolina State University – FREEDM Systems Center (test design and execution)
  • Schneider Electric (bi-directional inverter, engineering analysis)
  • PEPCO Holdings (utility partner)  READ MORE 

MGI's Zimmer Joins Microgrid Global Innovation Forum March 15 at GWU

Panel addresses how to build successful microgrid-utility relationships
March 9, 2018, Washington, D.C.: Microgrid Institute Washington Counsel Michael Zimmer is scheduled on Thurs., March 15, to join a panel discussion on building successful microgrid-utility relationships during the 6th Microgrid Global Innovation Forum. Titled "Working with Utilities: How to Make the Microgrid-Utility Relationship Work for Everyone," the panel will address how microgrids can enhance 21st-century utility operations, approaches to engaging utilities in project development, and vital areas to consider in microgrid planning and feasibility assessment.

Zimmer's remarks will focus on the critical role of microgrids in  support of the modernization of the US grid. Success will be driven by new innovation especially in business models and attracting capital for these integrative investments for future grid reliability, resilience and customer service. This transformation in the electric sector must manage challenges ahead for all stakeholders, customers and vendors and not just electric utilities. Technology may drive critical choices over historical and outdated regulations. Utilities that adapt to this transformation will be positioned to capture the opportunities ahead.  

”While we may be functioning increasingly in a winner-takes-all economy, not all companies will be winners," Zimmer said. "Increasing recognition of collaboration and partnering will be essential for success among electric stakeholders and vendors. This is required to capture the technology, market values, and potential for customer service based on performance and value in the new electric economy of the 21st century. If this is not recognized, only 25% of the true market potential of these newer technologies and innovations will be achieved, and U.S. productivity and competitiveness will be challenged and likely decline.“ READ MORE

New Paltz Community Energy Launches Public Website

Nov. 30, 2016, New Paltz, N.Y.: New Paltz Community Energy (NPCE) launched a public website (www.newpaltzenergy.org) today to provide information about NPCE initiatives and facilitate engagement with New Paltz community members and stakeholders. 
 
New Paltz Community Energy is a working group that includes the Town and Village of New Paltz, New Paltz Central School District, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and local businesses including Woodland Pond at New Paltz and Tops Friendly Markets. The working group is led by Microgrid Institute, with support from the Institute for Building Technology and Safety. READ MORE

New Paltz Microgrid Completes NY Prize Stage I

Aug. 24, 2016, New Paltz, N.Y.: The final summary report on the New Paltz Community Microgrid feasibility assessment has been accepted by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), signaling the successful completion of its NY Prize Stage I project. The project’s final Stage I report is available at the NYSERDA website here:
http://www.nyserda.ny.gov/-/media/NYPrize/files/studies/46-Town-of-New-Paltz.pdf
 
In August 2015, NYSERDA selected a public-private partnership led by Burr Energy LLC (dba Microgrid Institute) to assess the feasibility of developing a community microgrid in New Paltz.  The project team includes the Town and Village of New Paltz, State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz, the New Paltz Central School District, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and utility partner Central Hudson Gas & Electric. Microgrid Institute led the Stage I study as prime contractor and principal investigator, with technical partners Hitachi Consulting, Green Energy Corp., and TeMIX Inc.
 
NYSERDA provided $100,000 for the NY Prize Stage I project. NY Prize is a first-in-the nation $40 million competition to help communities create microgrids – standalone energy systems that can operate independently in the event of a power outage. Microgrids support a new generation of community-based power under Governor Cuomo’s Reforming the Energy Vision strategy and contribute to the Clean Energy Standard to have 50 percent of the State’s electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030. In all, NYSERDA selected 83 community projects to receive feasibility assessment grants in the NY Prize Community Grid competition.
 
In consultation with the New Paltz Community, the Microgrid Institute team identified six strategic goals for the proposed microgrid:
 
1.     Empower the community to implement its own energy strategy, as part of integrated community planning and development;
2.     Improve the resiliency of services that are critical to the health, safety, and vitality of the community;
3.     Increase the community’s use of local resilient renewable energy assets, and facilitate ongoing local renewable energy investment;
4.     Reduce the community’s fossil energy consumption and related environmental footprint, and facilitate ongoing reductions;
5.     Increase opportunities for local ownership of energy resources, keeping more energy dollars in the New Paltz economy; and
6.     Support future economic development and growth by modernizing community energy infrastructure. READ MORE

Warwick Launches NY Prize Community Microgrid Project

Microgrid Institute leads public-private partnership
Aug. 17, 2015 Albany, N.Y.: The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) selected a public-private partnership led by Burr Energy LLC (dba Microgrid Institute) to assess the feasibility of developing a community microgrid in Warwick. 

The project team includes the Town and Village of Warwick, the Warwick Central School District, Bon Secours Charity Health System, and Orange & Rockland Utilities. Microgrid Institute leads the study as prime contractor and principal investigator, with technical partners Green Energy Corp., Hitachi Consulting, and TeMIX Inc. 

During a kickoff meeting on July 15 at Warwick Town Hall, the team began an approximately six-month project to examine options for microgrids that would supply resilient electricity for vital community assets and systems. NYSERDA agreed to provide $100,000 for the NY Prize Stage I project. In all, NYSERDA selected 83 community projects to receive feasibility assessment grants in the NY Prize Community Grid competition. READ MORE

New Paltz Launches Ny Prize Community Microgrid Project

Microgrid Institute leads public-private partnership 
Aug. 3, 2015

Albany, N.Y.: The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) selected a public-private partnership led by Burr Energy LLC (dba Microgrid Institute) to assess the feasibility of developing a community microgrid in New Paltz. 

The project team includes the Town and Village of New Paltz, State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz, the New Paltz Central School District, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and Central Hudson Gas & Electric. Microgrid Institute leads the study as prime contractor and principal investigator, with technical partners Green Energy Corp., Hitachi Consulting, and TeMIX Inc. 

During a kickoff meeting on July 15 at the office of SUNY President Don Christian, the team began an approximately six-month project to examine options for microgrids that would supply resilient electricity for vital community assets and systems. NYSERDA agreed to provide $100,000 for the NY Prize Stage I project. In all, NYSERDA selected 83 community projects to receive feasibility assessment grants in the NY Prize Community Grid competition. READ MORE

PJM General Session Focuses on Microgrids

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May 20, 2015, Atlantic City, N.J.: At the PJM Interconnection's General Session today, Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr delivered a presentation that focused in part on trends in "nested" microgrids -- e.g., systems with multiple islanding nodes that are operated as a portfolio. Additionally, Burr participated in a panel discussion on the topic, and served as its moderator. 

"In the United States, the utility grid is highly reliable but not necessarily resilient," Burr told attendees at the event, which included approximately 400 PJM stakeholders and staff. "Microgrid technologies offer local customers options to ensure reliable power supplies for vital assets and services." Additionally, he explained the concept of nested microgrids, and discussed how it can address the needs of communities whose vital systems aren't conveniently clustered together -- such as the Olney Town Center microgrid project in Montgomery County, Maryland, where a team led by Microgrid Institute is designing and testing control systems to serve a nest of six separate microgrid nodes. 

General session presenters and panelists also included: 
  • Micah Kotch, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)
  • Lawrence Jones, Alstom
  • Tom Nyquist, Princeton University
  • Tom Fenimore, Duke Energy
READ MORE

Video: Presenting the Draft Minnesota CHP Action Plan

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::
May 13, 2015
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St. Paul, Minn.: Microgrid Institute today released a video comprising the April 28 webinar presenting Minnesota Department of Commerce's draft CHP Action Plan.
 
During the webinar, Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr presented the draft CHP Action Plan and moderated discussion and Q&A. Additional presenters included Minnesota Department of Commerce representatives Jessica Burdette and Adam Zoet, and Energy Resource Center representatives Graeme Miller and Stefano Galiasso. 

For more information about the Minnesota CHP Action Plan and Stakeholder Engagement Process, please visit the following:
-Microgrid Institute: http://www.microgridinstitute.org/resources.html
-Minnesota Department of Commerce
http://mn.gov/commerce/energy/businesses/clean-energy/distributed-generation/2014-workshops/chp-meetings.jsp

READ MORE ...

Webinar: Modeling Clean Resilient Power for Maryland Communities

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::
Jan. 21, 2015

Montgomery County, Md.: Microgrid Institute will host a free public webinar on Thurs., Feb. 5, 2015, at 2:00 EST, to provide information and address questions about the Olney Town Center microgrid R&D project. 

Register to attend this free webinar:

Online: http://bit.ly/1utV2OO
Phone: Peter Douglass (320) 493-1923
Email: pdouglass@microgridinstitute.org    

Background: The Olney Town Center microgrid R&D project team – which includes Microgrid Institute, Green Energy Corp., Schneider Electric, North Carolina State University, and Pepco Holdings Inc. – is working to research, design, simulate, and test advanced control systems for a prospective community microgrid at Olney in Montgomery County, approximately 20 miles from Washington, D.C. Additionally, the project will compare and contrast the Olney model against a second prospective microgrid deployment in Prince George’s County. 

During the webinar on February 5, the project team will provide an overview of the project with details about its objectives and approaches to microgrid technology development. ... READ MORE

U.S. DOE selects Microgrid Institute team to design and test microgrid systems for Maryland communities

September 9, 2014

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

Washington, D.C.: The U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, on Monday selected a team led by Burr Energy LLC (dba Microgrid Institute) to design, simulate, and test microgrid control systems for two Maryland suburbs served by utility Pepco Holdings Inc. 

DOE/NETL is expected to provide approximately $1.2 million in funding assistance for the Olney Town Center Microgrid Project during a two-year period beginning in late 2014. The project team – including Microgrid Institute, Green Energy Corp., Schneider Electric, and FREEDM Systems Center at N.C. State University, with assistance and cooperation from Pepco Holdings Inc. – will design and study advanced control systems for community microgrids at Olney (Montgomery County) and Ritchie Station Marketplace (Prince George’s County).

“The Olney Town Center area, which was recommended by Pepco Holdings Inc., serves as a critical community hub and lifeline,” said Michael Burr, Director, Microgrid Institute. “With a hospital, two schools, police and fire stations, a water tower, and other vital facilities within one square mile, the Olney Town Center is an ideal setting for a resilient community microgrid.”

In addition to modeling a microgrid control system for the Olney Town Center area, the project also will design and simulate a community microgrid centered on the Ritchie Station Marketplace, a multi-use commercial development near the Washington, D.C. beltway.

“Modeling microgrid configurations for two different community scenarios will allow the project team to compare and contrast use cases,” said Steven Pullins, Chief Strategy Officer at Green Energy Corp. “Insight from these comparisons will add substantial value to commercial microgrid product designs.”

Principal roles in project execution include:

  • Pepco Holdings Inc. (PHI) (Washington, D.C.): Collaborating with the project team, assisting and cooperating on network modeling and system design.
  • Burr Energy LLC dba Microgrid Institute (Little Falls, Minn.): Serving as prime contractor and project manager, providing advisory support to the project team, and assisting efforts to define microgrid design objectives and use cases, commercial and contracting structures, and regulatory and legal frameworks. 
  • Green Energy Corp. (Eugene, Ore.): Providing the GreenBus® Microgrid controls platform as well as leading the team’s research and development, system planning, and design activities, and leading analysis of test results.
  • Schneider Electric (LaVergne, Tenn.): Providing power engineering analysis, supporting equipment data and modeling efforts, and contributing key equipment for use in microgrid system integration, analysis, and testing.
  • The Future Renewables Electric Energy Delivery and Management (FREEDM) Systems Center (Raleigh, N.C.) (National Science Foundation Gen-III Engineering Research Center at North Carolina State University): Leading and executing all microgrid control systems testing, and supporting engineering analysis and test results reporting. 

The Olney Town Center project team also enjoys support and encouragement from the Maryland Energy Administration, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, the Montgomery County Council, and the NAI Michael Companies – developer of the Ritchie Station Marketplace. “Such collaborative support will ensure the project serves the priorities of local communities, the state of Maryland, and the nation,” Burr said.

In addition to addressing local energy priorities, the project will pursue key national goals established in the President’s Climate Action Plan, as well as DOE’s Microgrid Program Objectives:

  • Reduce outage time of critical loads by more than 98%;
  • Reduce emissions by 20%; and
  • Improve system efficiencies by more than 20%.

The Olney project complements other collaborative initiatives at Microgrid Institute, such as the Resilient Communities Initiative, which focuses on helping community leaders and stakeholders in strategic planning and execution of community resilience projects centered on local energy infrastructure.

About Microgrid Institute: Microgrid Institute (www.microgridinstitute.org) is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. 

FAQ:
www.microgridinstitute.org/faq-olney-town-center-microgrid-project.html

CONTACT:
www.microgridinstitute.org
320.632.5342 / info@microgridinstitute.org

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MINNESOTA SELECTS MICROGRID INSTITUTE FOR CHP STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

July 21, 2014

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

St. Paul, Minn.: The Minnesota Department of Commerce selected Microgrid Institute for a two-part project addressing combined heat and power (CHP) stakeholder engagement in the state. 

The project includes a pair of contracts to perform work that will assist the Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources, in its efforts to develop a CHP Action Plan for the state. Microgrid Institute’s work under the contracts will include facilitating CHP stakeholder engagement meetings and performing a series of stakeholder surveys. Project deliverables will include survey results, reports, analysis, and recommendations, as well as a CHP Stakeholder Database and a CHP Education & Training plan. 

“The Microgrid Institute team is delighted to work with the Minnesota Department of Commerce on this important initiative,” said Michael Burr, Director, Microgrid Institute. “These stakeholder engagement and outreach processes will help establish priorities for the Minnesota CHP Action Plan, and clarify how the State of Minnesota can facilitate development of highly efficient CHP systems. Through these efforts, we also will identify gaps in technical knowledge and capabilities among current and prospective CHP users, to help Minnesota direct education and training resources toward the most important needs.”

The Division of Energy Resources awarded the contracts to Microgrid Institute as the result of two competitive requests for proposals (RFP) announced in May 2014. The project was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. 

About Microgrid Institute: Microgrid Institute (www.microgridinstitute.org) is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. 

CONTACT:
www.microgridinstitute.org
320.632.5342 / info@microgridinstitute.org
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Microgrid Institute Launches
Community Energy Development Program

June 6, 2014

:: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ::

Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.: Microgrid Institute today launched the Community Energy Development Program, during the Go Solar Fest conference and exhibition at the Broward County Convention Center.

“Communities across the country are working to improve their resilience, preparing for the next disruptive storm,” said Michael Burr, Director of Microgrid Institute. “But community resilience projects are multi-faceted and complex, impacting many interdependent systems and services. Achieving local resilience calls for specialized expertise and information that can be difficult to find.”

The Microgrid Institute Community Energy Development Program will establish a single source of knowledge, expertise, and support to help communities in each phase of local resilience and sustainability project planning and implementation. By bringing these resources into a one-stop shop for community leaders, the Community Energy Development Program will raise the chances for project success -- while reducing project costs. 

Working with local communities, organizations, and agencies, Microgrid Institute will provide targeted information and assistance on community sustainability and resilience efforts. Through project support services and information and evaluation tools, the Community Energy Development Program will help community leaders with project planning, development, finance, and implementation. 

“Resilient energy systems are vital to maintain critical services and accelerate recovery from storm disruption,” Burr said. “They also enable communities to tap into local energy resources, which keeps energy dollars local, supports economic development, and reduces the community's environmental footprint. With collaborative assistance through the Community Energy Development Program, community leaders will overcome obstacles they encounter on the path toward local resilience and clean energy.”

The Microgrid Institute team currently is engaging communities and stakeholders in several states to provide targeted assistance and expertise for local sustainability and resilience projects. For more information about the Community Energy Development Program and for a free project evaluation contact Microgrid Institute. 

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. 

CONTACT:
www.microgridinstitute.org
320.632.5342 / info@microgridinstitute.org
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Microgrid Institute Offers Comments for Maryland 'Resiliency through Microgrids' Task Force
April 3, 2014: Microgrid Institute today submitted its comments to the Maryland Energy Administration for the Governor's  "Resiliency through Microgrids" Task Force Roadmap process. In its comments, Microgrid Institute encouraged the State to foster the development of community microgrids with a transparent, market-based approach that rewards productive innovation.

"A singularly important role for policymakers in Maryland is to establish policy goals and regulatory frameworks that foster innovation in serving local energy requirements – not only with microgrids, but with a full range of demand-side services, including distributed supply and storage either behind the meter or in grid-tied configuration," the comments read. "Policy provisions that aim to encourage public purpose microgrids should – at a minimum – avoid discouraging other distributed energy solutions, and ideally the State’s policies would result from a long-term strategic plan. Such a plan might seek to foster development of a Utility 2.0 grid topology, business model, and open-access energy services marketplace in Maryland."

Gov. Martin O'Malley appointed Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr to serve on the Resiliency through Microgrids Task Force, which was established in February 2014 and convened several meetings in Annapolis during the month of March. A broad range of microgrid market stakeholders were represented on the Task Force, demonstrating the state's interest in encouraging timely development of public-purpose microgrids -- i.e., those that provide vital community services. 

Microgrid Institute's submitted comments are available at the Microgrid Institute "Resources" page.

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ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org
Burr Named to Maryland Governor's Task Force
March 4, 2014: Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr was appointed to the "Resiliency through Microgrids" Task Force, which Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley established on February 25. 

Led by O'Malley Energy Advisor Abigail Hopper, the Task Force will study the statutory, regulatory, financial, and technical barriers to the deployment of microgrids in Maryland. The effort builds on recommendations from the Grid Resiliency Task Force's report issued in September 2012. The Task Force expects to develop a road map to assist entities to explore microgrid development in Maryland.

“Many communities and customer groups in Maryland face energy reliability and survivability challenges,” Burr said. “We applaud Gov. O'Malley's leadership in addressing questions affecting how microgrids can help address Maryland's resiliency needs, and look forward to participating in this important collaboration.”

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ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org

Microgrid Institute Joins
NYU Law School Symposium
March 3, 2014: Today Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr joined the NYU Law School Symposium on the Utility of the Future. As part of a panel moderated by Adjunct Professor and Latham & Watkins Partner Michael Gergen, Burr presented an address on innovative business models in the utility industry, and how microgrids fit into the industry's future.

“The traditional utility business model faces disruptive challenges, especially from distributed energy resources technologies,” said Michael Burr, director of Microgrid Institute. “Utilities will play a key role in optimizing the value of microgrids and other DERs, but regulatory frameworks need adjustment to properly align incentives and encourage an integrated strategic approach to planning and deployment.”

Panel members included:
  • Michael Gergen, NYU Law School / Latham & Watkins (moderator)
  • Paul Centolella, Analysis Group
  • David Anderson, ClearEdge Power
  • Michael Burr, Public Utilities Fortnightly / Microgrid Institute

New York Public Service Commission Chair Audrey Zibelman presented the keynote address, discussing the PSC's plans for "animating real markets" in the retail energy industry.

Burr said, "New York is demonstrating important leadership in addressing challenging questions facing energy industry stakeholders, including regulated utilities. Microgrid Institute looks forward to continuing collaborative efforts to ensure New York's market evolution facilitates optimal planning and deployment of distributed energy technologies to meet customers' critical requirements." 

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ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org

State of Minnesota Publishes
Microgrid Policy and Market Study
Dec. 3, 2013, : St. Paul, Minn. (USA): The Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources, formally announced the release of Minnesota Microgrids: Barriers, Opportunities, and Pathways Toward Energy Assurance, the 110-page final report of a study performed by a Microgrid Institute team. The project was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Minnesota Department of Commerce through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

“This report takes an in-depth look at regulatory barriers to and opportunities for microgrid development to enhance energy assurance in the state of Minnesota, with recommendations to address barriers and identify pathways to facilitate microgrid development,” stated Bill Grant, Deputy Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources. “Microgrids represent one of many tools available to policymakers, community leaders, and the energy industry to support grid reliability and the ability to maintain critical community services during emergencies.”

DER selected the Microgrid Institute team, managed by Burr Energy LLC, as a result of a competitive request for proposals (RFP) in June 2013. For the study, Microgrid Institute assembled a multidisciplinary group of professionals who collaborated to perform research and analysis. Team members include:

  • Michael Burr (primary author), Principal, Burr Energy LLC and Director, Microgrid Institute
  • Michael J. Zimmer, Partner, Thompson Hine LLP, and Washington Counsel, Microgrid Institute
  • Walter Levesque, Director, DER and Microgrids, DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability
  • John D. McDonald, IEEE Fellow
  • Brian Meloy and James J. Bertrand, Partners, Leonard, Street & Deinard
  • Guy Warner, CEO, Pareto Energy

Additionally, the Microgrid Institute team drew upon the insights and contributions of more than 30 subject matter experts, from organizations ranging from the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to Connecticut Light & Power and Xcel Energy.

“The Minnesota Microgrids report examines a range of issues affecting microgrid projects, with a special focus on those serving energy assurance and renewable energy goals,” Burr said. “In addition to helping Minnesota policymakers and stakeholders better understand microgrids and their drivers, we hope the Minnesota Microgrids report also will assist in efforts in other markets to create a more resilient and sustainable energy system.”

In addition to analyzing the history, status, and outlook for microgrids, the study provided policy recommendations intended to remove unnecessary barriers to microgrids and facilitate their optimization as part of the integrated utility grid. Specific recommendations include:

■ Setting and clarifying the role of microgrids in the State’s policy vision and priorities, and integrating that role in regional planning; 
■ Removing or reducing regulatory barriers and artificial, outdated institutional impediments to microgrids;
■ Establishing statutory frameworks and processes supporting microgrids in the State’s utility planning and oversight roles; and
■ Initiating and supporting a microgrid pilot program.

“Taking these steps, the State of Minnesota can help ensure microgrids provide cost-effective and flexible solutions to address the State’s policy goals, and become available as tools for efficiency, reliability, and economic development with 21st-century technologies,” the report stated (p.12).

The Minnesota Microgrids final report is publicly available for download from the Minnesota Department of Commerce website, with links to both the main report and DNV KEMA’s market data report from Microgrid Institute’s “Resources” page here:
http://www.microgridinstitute.org/resources.html



ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org

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U.N. Foundation Workgroup hosts
Microgrid Institute presentation
Nov. 21, 2013, : Washington, D.C.: The United Nations Foundation Work Group on Mini-Grids hosted a presentation by Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr during its teleconference on Nov. 21, 2013. 

The presentation, titled "Microgrid Multi-Play: Creative solutions for energy access, resilience, and sustainability," addressed recent developments and trends in the microgrid landscape. It focused in particular on prospects for "multi-play" projects that combine a variety of services and products -- including telecom, internet, television, and facility related services, perhaps even including real estate finance, together with reliable and sustainable electricity, heating and cooling, etc.

"Energy access fuels economic growth and brings connectivity and service options," Burr said. "Electricity and telecom services can be complementary in microgrid projects. Phone, Internet, and television depend on electrification." 

The U.N. Foundation Mini-Grids Work Group is organized by the UNF Energy Access Initiative, through its "Sustainable Energy for All" program. (http://www.se4all.org/). The Nov. 21 call was moderated by Terry Mohn, Mini-Grids Working Group chairman and also CEO of General Microgrids. 

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org


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Microgrid Institute Participates in
Maryland Clean Energy Summit
Oct. 16, 2013, College Park, Md.: Microgrid Institute participated in the Maryland Clean Energy Summit here today. Michael Burr moderated a panel discussion that focused on major factors driving microgrid development. Panelists included:

■ Alan Scott, Verizon
■ Richard Godlasky, Lockheed Martin
■ John Jimison, Energy Future Coalition / UN Foundation

Burr's presentation from the panel, "Utility 2.0 and Dynamic Microgrids: Tools for resilience, economics, and sustainability," is available at the Microgrid Institute website.

Additionally Microgrid Institute sponsored an exhibit at the Maryland Clean Energy Summit. The event attracted high-level attendees focused on energy assurance planning and community energy development, especially in the Northeastern U.S. markets. The event's keynote speaker was former Colorado PUC Chairman and former Nominee for FERC Chairman Ron Binz. The annual event is produced by the Maryland Clean Energy Center.

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org


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Minnesota selects Microgrid Institute team
for State policy study, roadmap
::FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE::
Aug. 13, 2013, St. Paul, Minn.: The Minnesota Department of Commerce selected a Microgrid Institute team to study microgrid prospects in the state. 

The project, “White Paper Analysis of Regulatory Barriers and Opportunities for Microgrid Development in Minnesota,” will identify regulatory barriers and recommend pathways to facilitate microgrid development, as part of the State of Minnesota’s Energy Assurance Planning Initiative. It also will analyze Minnesota’s potential microgrid capacity, including prospects for microgrids that rely on renewable energy resources. This project was made possible by a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Minnesota Department of Commerce through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

The Microgrid Institute team is comprised of a multidisciplinary group of professionals, collaborating to perform research and analysis. Team members include:

■ Michael Burr, Principal, Burr Energy LLC, and Director, Microgrid Institute
■ Michael J. Zimmer, Senior Counsel, Thompson Hine, 
   and Washington Counsel, Microgrid Institute
■ James J. Bertrand, Shareholder, Leonard, Street & Deinard
■ John D. McDonald, IEEE Fellow
■ Walter Levesque, Director, DER and Microgrids, DNV KEMA
■ Guy Warner, CEO, Pareto Energy

“The Microgrid Institute team is thrilled to be working with the Minnesota Department of Commerce to analyze barriers and opportunities for microgrids in Minnesota,” Burr said. “This initiative will help policy makers and stakeholders better understand the many factors affecting microgrid projects, so the State can assist in efforts to create a more resilient and sustainable energy system.” 

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org


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ABA-ACORE webinar features Microgrid Institute presentation on smart grids and microgrids
::FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE::
July 17, 2013, Washington, D.C.: A joint committee of the American Bar Association (ABA) and the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) hosted a webinar for members and guests today that featured a presentation by Microgrid Institute Director Michael Burr.

Burr's presentation examined major trends and factors affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy resources.

The webinar, titled Smart Grids & Microgrids: The Race for Capital,  was co-moderated by attorneys Kimberly Diamond of Lowenstein Sandler LLP and Roger Stark of Stoel Rives LLP, and featured presentations by Burr as well as Patty Durand, executive director of the Smart Grid Consumer Collaborative, and Joel Eisen, a professor at the University of Richmond School of Law. 

Burr's presentation, “Smart Grids, Smart Microgrids: Plotting the trajectory of power market disintermediation,” is available on the Microgrid Institute website here:
http://www.microgridinstitute.org/resources

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org


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Burr announces launch of Microgrid Institute
::FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE::
June 1, 2013, Little Falls, Minn.: Longtime energy industry editor and analyst Michael T. Burr today announced the launch of a new initiative to address factors affecting the development of energy microgrids around the world.

The initiative, “Microgrid Institute,” initiates and manages collaborative work to examine issues involving microgrids and distributed energy resources. 

“We use an interdisciplinary approach,” Burr said. “By working with acknowledged authorities and subject-matter experts, Microgrid Institute provides thorough and objective research, analysis, and development support.” Key goals include analyzing challenges and opportunities facing microgrids; identifying model structures, policies, and practices; and contributing knowledge and insight to policy and development processes. 

Formative efforts to establish Microgrid Institute began in late 2012, with organizational filings with the State of Minnesota in April 2013. Burr brings nearly 25 years of industry experience to the initiative. Since 2007 he has served as editor-in-chief of Public Utilities Fortnightly, the journal of record for the U.S. investor-owned utility industry. He began his career in 1989 on the editorial staff of Independent Energy magazine and the Independent Energy Forum, serving developers and finance executives in the independent power producer (IPP) industry. In the early 1990s he began an independent analysis and consulting practice that has numbered among its clients IBM, Barclays PLC, PriceWaterhouse Coopers, Sutherland Asbill & Brennan, and U.S. Generating Co. In the late 1990s he served as editor of PennWell's Electric Light & Power magazine. He joined Public Utilities Reports in 2001.

Additional information is available at the Microgrid Institute website here:
http://www.microgridinstitute.org/

ABOUT MICROGRID INSTITUTE: Microgrid Institute is a collaborative organization that addresses key issues affecting the development of microgrids and distributed energy assets around the world. Efforts focus on market development and analysis, regulatory and financial models, and project feasibility and structuring. Microgrid Institute is an independent initiative of Burr Energy LLC. For more information, see www.microgridinstitute.org

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