Microgrid, Battery Storage Help Mitigate Severe Weather

In this episode of CFC Solutions Cast, we speak with Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association (PVREA) President and CEO Jeff Wadsworth, PVREA Energy Resources Specialist Tony Francone and PVREA Engineer Jeremy Eldridge about a new microgrid and battery storage system.

Based in Fort Collins, Colorado, PVREA uses the microgrid and battery storage system to enhance resilience for the Red Feather Lakes community, which faces frequent challenges from wildfires, winter storms and tornadoes.

Wadsworth, Francone and Eldridge discuss how the microgrid and battery storage project came about and the components involved, including an 8-kilowatt photovoltaic system, a 130kW propane generator and a 140kW/446kWh Tesla Powerpack battery. The trio also discuss lessons learned from implementing the project and how it fits in with PVREA’s commitment to the seventh cooperative principle, “Concern for Community.” 

Tune in to hear the critical insights PVREA shares about implementing an effective microgrid and battery storage system to reduce vulnerabilities to the effects of extreme weather and ensure reliability for member-owners.