Localized power grids, sometimes sourced from renewable sources, can make energy systems more resilient and reliable.
Local microgrids are helping U.S. communities keep the lights on during power outages and facilitating the shift to renewable energy.
As Eric Krebs explains in an article for Reasons to be Cheerful, “Microgrids consist of generation devices along with management systems that control voltage and distribution of power. Their technology allows for cleaner, more efficient and more reliable power to buildings and communities in the event of greater grid failures.”
“According to the Department of Energy, there are some 1,100 active microgrid installations in the U.S., with new installations planned everywhere from Maine to Hawaii,” Krebs adds, generating over five million kilowatts. Meanwhile, even microgrids that can’t fully support their areas in the event of power failures make blackouts less likely by reducing pressure on the larger grid and providing stability.
FULL STORY: Green Microgrids Are Powering a More Resilient Future
America’s 10 ‘Greenest’ Cities
A new analysis ranks cities based on their environmental quality, energy consumption and production, transportation, density, and other factors.
Renewable Energy Under Pressure: Lessons on Grid Resilience in Extreme Weather From Texas and California
How preparation and modern infrastructure can prevent power failures in an era of climate change.
Florida Rolls Back Renewable Energy Goals
A new state law eliminates language calling for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and makes it easier to build natural gas pipelines.
San Diego to Rescind Multi-Unit ADU Rule
The city wants to close a loophole that allowed developers to build apartment buildings on single-family lots as ADUs.
The VW Bus is Back — Now as an Electric Minivan
Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz reimagines its iconic Bus as a fully electric minivan, blending retro design with modern technology, a 231-mile range, and practical versatility to offer a stylish yet functional EV for the future.
Has President Trump Met His Match?
Doug Ford, the no-nonsense premier of Canada's most populous province, Ontario, is taking on Trump where it hurts — making American energy more expensive.
USDOT Eliminates Environmental, Equity Considerations
A new memo rescinds Biden-era regulations that prioritized renewable energy, accessibility, and equity for historically disadvantaged communities.
Study: Drops in Transit Ridership Linked to Extreme Weather
Unsurprisingly, people are less likely to use transit during extreme weather events, which are becoming more common around the country.
Washington State May Cap Rent Increases at 7 Percent
House Bill 1217 was passed by the House and will move next to the state Senate.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Resource Assistance for Rural Environments
City of Edmonds
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
UCLA Lewis Center for Regional Policy Studies
City of Piedmont, CA
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research