Opinion
Skip the Utility Companies: Microgrids Can Get Your Building Reliable Power Faster
Annie Otfinoski – 06/01/23

The growing demand for industrial buildings is not being met with an increase in power availability.

Share

Utility companies are struggling to keep up with the demand as they also hedge against increasing wildfires, leading to long delays for developers. These multiple year long delays have detrimental effects on buildings profitability, and as grid volatility continues we expect these delays to get worse.

Luckily, there is a solution; microgrids. Mynt Systems has designed and implemented functional Microgrids that can generate, store, and supply power entirely independent of the grid. Microgrids create decentralized power generation and distribution that are not grid reliant. In other words, you can create your own power and run all your building operations 24/7. By integrating renewable energy sources such as solar, fuel cells, and energy storage systems, microgrids provide reliable onsite power and energy resilience.

Solar energy is generated whenever the sun is shining, generating clean and free power. The surplus solar power is stored in batteries, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply even during cloudy periods or at night. Fuel cells are another key component of microgrid systems. This cutting edge technology uses electrochemical reactions to convert fuel, typically hydrogen, into electricity. Fuel cells offer high energy efficiency, low emissions, and quiet operation, making them an ideal complement to solar energy in microgrids.

Fuel cells can serve as a reliable source of onsite power generation, particularly in situations where solar energy may be limited or there is a high energy demand. By coupling fuel cells with renewable hydrogen production methods, such as electrolysis powered by excess renewable energy, microgrids can ensure a constant and sustainable supply of electricity. Fuel cell-based microgrids contribute to energy resilience, reducing reliance on traditional power infrastructure and enhancing grid independence.

Energy storage systems, also referred to as “batteries”, are essential components of microgrids. These systems store excess energy generated from solar panels and fuel cells during periods of low demand and supply it during peak demand or when renewable sources are unavailable. By balancing supply and demand, energy storage enhances the stability and reliability of microgrid operations. Sophisticated software used with these batteries enable smart load shifting and the optimization of energy usage.

Microgrids represent a transformative approach to onsite power generation, offering energy resilience, sustainability, and reduced reliance on centralized power systems. Instead of waiting for your utility company to get unreliable power to your building, consider exploring a microgrid solution for faster, cleaner, and more reliable power. You’ll be able to tenant your building sooner, and attract better quality tenants, while also increasing your NOI.

If you’re interested in a clean and faster solution to power your building reach out to Annie Otfinoski at MYNT Systems.

Share