Puerto Rico's Power Transformation: Microgrids and Minigrids Lead the Way
Puerto Rico is exploring innovative solutions to improve its power infrastructure, with microgrids and minigrids emerging as promising options. These systems can serve complexes of buildings or entire villages, providing stable and autonomous energy supply. Meanwhile, the government plans to privatize the state-owned utility, PREPA, opening avenues for change in the energy sector.
The 'Puerto Rico Energy Public Policy Act' (Act No. 17-2019) has paved the way for the introduction of minigrid systems, promoting the use of renewable energy sources. A notable initiative involves dividing Puerto Rico's power system into seven autonomous minigrid rings, each capable of operating independently and based on renewable energy. This strategy aims to enhance energy efficiency and resilience against natural disasters.
Firms like New Fortress Energy and AES Corporation have shown interest in investing in renewable energy infrastructure. AES, for instance, proposes a minigrid vision featuring seven solar-plus-storage minigrids connected by robust transmission lines. This plan seeks to reduce fuel costs and inefficiency, with solar being the most cost-effective energy source on the island. The plan estimates a need for 10,000 MW of solar and 2,500 MW of 10-hour duration storage to meet current demand. The shift towards localized energy systems is driven by Puerto Rico's high electricity rates, similar to those in Hawaii, and the desire for more resilient power solutions.
Puerto Rico's energy landscape is evolving, with microgrids and minigrids offering promising solutions to power outages. The privatization of PREPA and increased public awareness of renewable energy strategies are further driving this change. AES Corporation's minigrid plan, if implemented, could significantly improve Puerto Rico's energy efficiency, resilience, and reliance on renewable sources.
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