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.
National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions
Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.
Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50
A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.
Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes
Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.
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Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species
The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.
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.
EMC Planning Group, Inc.
Planetizen
Planetizen
Mpact (formerly Rail~Volution)
Great Falls Development Authority, Inc.
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service