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Arlington Microgrid

The Arlington Microgrid and Clean Energy Center project introduces new technology for grid resiliency and renewable energy integration. It includes:

  • 500-kilowatt solar array with smart inverters
  • 1,000 kW/1,400 kWh lithium-ion battery storage system
  • Vehicle-to-grid charging stations for the PUD’s electric fleet
  • A solar tree

What is a Microgrid?

A microgrid offers a unique emergency backup system for power. It is comprised of locally grouped electricity sources that can feed the main electrical grid or be disconnected to serve a specific location.

Microgrid Benefits

  • Demonstrates multiple uses of energy storage
  • Provides a model for future microgrid projects
  • Increases reliability during emergencies
  • Features one of the largest Community Solar arrays in the state

Components of the Microgrid

  • 500-kW solar array: The energy produced by the array can either power the microgrid or be sent out to the main grid. This array was the centerpiece of the PUD’s first Community Solar program, which made solar energy accessible to all customers, even those who live in apartments or homes otherwise unsuitable for solar.
  • 1,000-kW battery storage system: The system is designed to power the PUD’s Arlington Community Office during outages caused by major events like windstorms or earthquakes. When not in emergency mode, it supports renewable energy integration and provides grid support.
  • Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Charging Stations: The microgrid incorporates V2G charging stations that can charge electric fleet vehicles and allow the stored energy in these vehicles to flow back to the grid, providing support during outages.
  • Clean Energy Center: The project includes the Clean Energy Center, which demonstrates microgrid technology and provides a venue to educate the public about new energy technologies.
  • Solar Tree: In 2022, a solar tree was added to the project. This structure, designed and built by PUD employees, showcases solar power and battery storage on a small scale. The solar tree generates and stores solar power and can operate independently or with the grid.
A crowd of smiling people stands next to the solar tree at the Arlington Microgrid
The PUD Clean Energy Center and Solar Tree

Background

  • Received $3.5 million in funding from the Washington Clean Energy Fund
  • Total project cost: $12 million

Other projects receiving funding from the Washington Clean Energy Fund include Avista Spokane Micro-Transactive Grid ($3.5 M), Energy Northwest – Richland Solar Energy Storage ($3 M), Seattle City Light Solar Microgrid ($1.5 M), and OPALCO Solar Energy Storage ($1 M).

Timeline

  • 2018-2019: Design & Phase I site work
  • 2019: Solar Array
  • 2019-2020: Clean Energy Center
  • 2020 Q3: Battery Energy Storage & Microgrid Control System procurement
  • 2021 Q3: Start-up, commissioning & report
  • 2021-2033: Operation & study

Additional Resources