Pacific Gas and Electric Infrastructure Improvements

As a part of Pacific Gas and Electric’s (PG&E) infrastructure improvements and wildfire mitigation plan, the California utility is working to install microgrid facilities at remote sites throughout their service area. These sites will have any overhead distribution lines removed to reduce the risk of wildfires. Each site features a standalone PV array, battery energy storage system, and a backup propane generator to provide a reliable microgrid system. The sites will provide a minimum of a 75% renewable energy fraction at year 10, meaning that 75% of the energy consumed each year will come from the PV systems. The microgrid system sizing, design, and energy modeling were all performed by Cushing Terrell’s infrastructure group.

FEATURED BLOG POST: Swapping Distribution Lines for Microgrids — An Energy Solution for Remote Areas

PG&E’s remote microgrid program received an honorable mention as part of Fast Company’s 2024 World Changing Ideas Awards, which highlight sustainability initiatives, technology developments, and other creative projects that are helping to solve modern-day challenges. Learn more.