US Microgrid Policies

Are microgrids a state program?

Several states have enacted legislation to include microgrids under existing state programs and incentives. The Connecticut legislature, in particular, has worked to wrap microgrids into state policies designed to support a variety of energy investments for both public and private entities.

How does government support microgrids?

Support for microgrids comes from research and development (R&D) programs at federal and state levels, software and tools, grants and funding support to incentivize demonstration projects, and tax and financial incentives for the installation of distributed energy [2, 3, 6, 126].

What is a microgrid strategy?

The Strategy development process began with microgrid experts deliberating on areas the Strategy should focus on for impactful results in key metrics, such as reliability, resilience, decarbonization, and affordability, in the next five to ten years.

Should lawmakers support microgrid development?

As lawmakers in other states consider whether to support microgrid development, it’s important that policies consider the full value and reflect the suite of benefits that microgrids can provide the power grid to harness their full potential.

Is a microgrid legal?

The ownership classification model in large part determines the legality of a microgrid. Current regulation is most favorable of the utility and landlord models, however the key to microgrid legality and ultimate success lies in attaining a Qualifying Facility (QF) classification under the Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act (PURPA).

Should Connecticut invest in microgrids?

The Connecticut legislature, in particular, has worked to wrap microgrids into state policies designed to support a variety of energy investments for both public and private entities. First, the state added microgrids to the list of qualifying projects that municipal energy improvement districts can pursue.