Join us Wednesday, June 28, 2023, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. for a ‘Microgrids for Resilience and Equity in Eastern North Carolina’ workshop, a gathering of federal, state, and local leaders to discuss emerging technologies related to microgrids as an additional option to reduce power outages, especially as it relates to resilience and equity in the state’s eastern counties.
A range of community partners will meet to share information and begin a conversation about the role of microgrids in North Carolina’s power source mix in the face of climate change, highlighting how microgrids can address equity in energy access, notably those of rural, underserved communities.
Representatives from electric cooperatives, investor-owned utilities, county leaders, and emergency management staff, among others, will discuss the possibilities and challenges to lessen electrical isolation.
Participants will learn that a microgrid is a local electrical grid with defined electrical boundaries that acts as a single yet controllable power source that can operate connected to a grid or work in ‘island’ mode. Usually combined with solar panels and batteries, a microgrid can help improve electric reliability, provide services to the overall electric system, and serve as a backup power supply to a geographic area.
C4EE will facilitate dialogue among these partners to examine how to navigate a smarter energy future for areas that are negatively affected during weather events and other disasters. The conversation will also include an overview of how the Inflation Reduction Act can help fund infrastructure needs to provide grid solutions and promote environmental justice. Join us to collaborate toward a more resilient and equitable future for Eastern NC.