Average microgrid storage price per 300MW in New Zealand

Are microgrids coming to NZ?

The grids need to be managed to tell solar system where to send power, how much to send, monitor it, and charge the end user for it (if that energy is shared). All that is available now and is operating in NZ, Brendan says. “Microgrids are here to stay and we will be seeing more of them,” he believes.

Are microgrids King?

Added to that is the fact that microgrids being trialled in New Zealand tend to be solar powered and solar, it appears, is king. In 2017 solar became the leading form of new utility energy generation in the world. Energy sources, other than solar, can feed microgrids.

What are microgrids & how do they work?

Microgrids are energy distribution systems which only involve a small group of connections. They can operate independently or be connected to a larger grid. Picture, for example, solar panels on a rooftop, accompanied by battery power to store generated energy. That power can then be used by the property owner, and even sold to others nearby.

What are the benefits of a micro-grid system?

Microgrid systems can offer access to energy, increased autonomy from the electricity network, increased reliability, resiliency to climate change impacts (e.g. cyclones), reduced electricity bills, lower green-house gas emissions, and environmental stewardship. Infratec has an extensive portfolio of micro-grid projects.

Which energy sources can feed microgrids?

Energy sources, other than solar, can feed microgrids. For example, wind turbines, mini and micro hydro, biogas, bio mass can all be part of the microgrid energy generation picture, but the reality is that solar and batteries are utilised in the vast majority of microgrids around the world.

Do microgrids have a role to play in the future?

Microgrids can and do deliver that. Meanwhile, Wellington Electricity chief executive Greg Skelton will be watching with interest to see what develops with solar units, and whether microgrids have a role to play in the future.