Hey everyone! I'm an electrical engineer and I've been brainstorming an idea for a neighborhood microgrid that I'd love to get your thoughts on. The concept is to set up excess solar capacity and energy storage, encouraging neighbors to install hybrid inverter systems that allow them to buy power at a lower rate through DC connections. This setup would give them cheaper electricity and backup power during outages while still being connected to the grid.
The intention is for folks to benefit even if they only install an inverter for now. If they decide to expand later, that would be awesome! I'd create a centralized system to manage power flow and handle any issues like load regulation, especially when the energy supply is tight. With everyone on DC instead of AC, I believe it'd simplify the electrics, though it still means I'd need to communicate with everyone's inverters, which might be a challenge.
I'm motivated by rising electricity costs—especially since I live near many data centers in PJM, which I expect will drive prices even higher. So, I'm wondering if anyone can help me identify any potential barriers, challenges, or if this idea is totally off-base. I know it'll be tough and costly, but is it even realistic? I get the technical side, but the legal and social aspects are a bit murky for me.
5 Answers
Interesting concept! On the logistical side, you’d need space for a large solar array. It sounds like connecting neighbors through long cables might be problematic. Have you thought about how you’d make those connections practical? I doubt long stretches of cable would be the best way forward.
Long cables can work; people just use them for other projects! Burying them, of course, is key.
Consider looking into FERC 2222, since it might support your initiative as a recognized federal framework. As for structuring the microgrid, you might find that working within an HOA could facilitate this, especially since many communities already have shared resources. It might make it easier to propose such projects since you could structure them similarly to existing arrangements like communal wells.
Right, I think your HOA could be an ideal platform for starting this project! There’s a natural community already shared, it could really cement those ties.
Absolutely, an HOA structure can significantly ease the logistics! But without one, getting this off the ground could be a real uphill battle.
Your setup sounds intriguing, but I'm confused about what participants need to contribute. Is it just an inverter, or do they need panels too? Community solar already exists and offers similar benefits without requiring everyone to invest heavily in their own systems. But I get that you want that islanding capability during outages, which could be a game-changer if executed well.
Yep, the idea is to keep it decentralized. You'd want a few community members to invest in the solar infrastructure so others can benefit without breaking the bank—like getting backup power during outages while keeping electricity costs low.
There’s definitely a level of complexity you'd need to figure out to make it all work, especially here in the U.S.
One big thing to think about is the size of the cables you'll need for high amperage DC transmission. Safety becomes a real concern with that. Have you considered boosting the voltage? It's definitely doable, but you've got to keep safety during installation in mind since it'll be running at high voltage, likely above 100V and underground to mitigate risks.
Totally agree on the voltage. Going high seems like the way to go, and proper burial can help mitigate a lot of risks.
Just make sure whatever you install meets local safety codes. It's crucial to prevent any accidents.
I see where you're going, but wouldn’t this model require a drastic shift away from how utilities operate with VPPs? Imagine how involved they’d prefer to be versus a completely independent neighborhood setup. You’d have to navigate around all that.
I’m thinking the installation can be managed with appropriate infrastructure. High voltage should allow those long runs if done right—just ensure everything is properly installed.