Collection

Microgrids

Remy Noble

Oregon State University

Student (NOT Journalism School)

Many rural and low income communities are disconnected from electrical networks that are centralized to meet the needs of people in more populated locations, resulting in 1.1 billion people lacking electricity. One solution to the unavailability of electricity is microgrids. Microgrids rely on a combination of energy sources, ranging from biomass to wind to solar, that are localized in small communities to provide needed electricity. These microgrids are designed exclusively to meet local energy demands and are highly efficient, because energy is not lost through transmission and distribution from distant places. They also provide backup generation and energy storage to maximize the energy being produced. Project Drawdown lists microgrids as one of the best solutions to combat climate change and improve quality of life.

The stories in this collection (see below) address how microgrids are changing the lives of communities who previously have had to live without electricity. Countries striving to meet goals of universal energy access and sustainability are turning to microgrids to obtain these goals. From India to Nigeria, microgrids have brought clean electricity to new areas and are improving local economies. A startup in Bangladesh is even allowing villagers to sell extra electricity to one another. Many developed countries are also investing in microgrids as an alternative to their macro-grid systems. A microgrid project in California has lowered utility bills, provided cleaner energy and proven to be more resilient against natural disasters and power outages. This solution is one of the Drawdown Ecochallenge actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE SOLUTIONS JOURNALISM STORY COLLECTIONS RELATED TO PROJECT DRAWDOWN.