pilot some community level alternative energy micro-grids with a variety of structures ~ at least one that would be residential co-op.
"A microgrid is a localized grouping of electricity generation, energy storage, and loads that normally operates connected to a traditional centralized grid (macrogrid). This single point of common coupling with the macrogrid can be disconnected. The microgrid can then function autonomously.[8] Generation and loads in a microgrid are usually interconnected at low voltage. From the point of view of the grid operator, a connected microgrid can be controlled as if it was one entity. Microgrid generation resources can include fuel cells, wind, solar, or other energy sources. The multiple dispersed generation sources and ability to isolate the microgrid from a larger network would provide highly reliable electric power."
Making changes to move into green energy is beyond the ability of most homeowners. There are some creative "group" and community responses to the financial and structural obstacles involving the innovative use of micro-grids. It would be possible to adapt some of these examples to our cities making them more resilient and cooperative. While our cities have existing housing stock that needs retrofitting (rather than zero-energy new design) existing housing could still move toward drawing energy use from alternative sources by developing community or co-op owned green energy micro-grids.
This would also position a city to be moving toward meeting the standards of a "Renewable Energy Community" (see: http://www.nrel.gov/vehiclesandfuels/hev/pdfs/42774.pdf)
NREL has outlined five elements needed to become a Renewable Energy Community:
1. Sustainable Design Approach
2. Solar/Zero Energy Buildings and/or Micro-Grids
3. Advanced and Energy Efficient Transportation
4. Utility Role Expansion—Power Generation and Load Management
5. Putting it All Together for a Renewable Energy Community.
Illustrative of the problems/obstacles toward moving into a renewable energy world ~ http://edition.cnn.com/2011/09/21/world/europe/ursula-sladek-green-energy and a community driven solution
www.lcic.com/projects-ashton-hayes Video on such an example project:
http://youtu.be/A2x0rRKS_4w.
-
Beverly Woodbeck commented
I love this idea but will add that any micro grid should include Kinetic energy as well. This human powered green technology would contribute a significant amount of energy to help power our community.
-
Erica Mooney commented
I really love this idea!!