USA: Enel launches microgrid for service station in Massachusetts
The project is expected to be the first commercial deployment of a microgrid that integrates power supply for the station facility and the DC fast charger co-located behind the same metre.
Enel X, the advanced energy services arm of the Enel Group, and Global Partners LP have launched a microgrid for the Alltown Fresh service station in Ayer, Massachusetts. The microgrid will offer on-site generated power to the forecourt by integrating solar panels on the canopy, a battery storage unit, and a portable generator connection.
"Solar energy paired with battery storage is not only valuable during emergencies. The Alltown Fresh microgrid is attractive to EV drivers who want to power their vehicles with renewable energy, and it's valuable to businesses to support the local grid by decreasing overall demand and reducing emissions while reducing costs," said Surya Panditi, Head of Enel X North America.
The microgrid is the first project to be completed under InnovateMass' Resilient Service Stations Challenge, which seeks to ensure continuous power for service stations near evacuation routes across the state. Enel X also partnered with National Grid under the EV Make Ready Program to upgrade the grid to support EV charging, power for the service station, and interconnection of the distributed energy resources co-located behind the same metre.
"Our partnership with Enel X will help National Grid prepare for increased demand from electric vehicle charging stations by using innovative system design to mitigate the impacts of DCFC charging on the grid and maximise the benefits of increased electric vehicle adoption," added John Isberg, VP of Customer Sales and Solutions at National Grid.
The project is expected to be the first commercial deployment of a microgrid that integrates power supply for the station facility and the DC fast charger co-located behind the same metre.
