Dave CarterThe Schatz Center is working with GHD, an international engineering firm, to conduct a microgrid feasibility study for the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). The study is focused on a former semi-conductor manufacturing facility that was acquired by UCSC and is being converted to offices and research lab space. UCSC wants to install a microgrid with renewable energy generating capacity of 2 to 4 Megawatts, allowing the facility to island and operate independently of the Pacific Gas & Electric grid as well as parallel with and provide support to PG&E’s grid in Santa Cruz. Another important objective is to use the microgrid as a teaching and learning laboratory by including both commercially mature and emerging/experimental technologies as well as advanced supervisory control and data acquisition systems.
The study includes:
- evaluating microgrid technologies,
- assessing space requirements for generation and storage technologies,
- developing a design load profile for full occupancy,
- selection of recommended technologies,
- developing a site plan and one line diagram,
- estimating construction costs,
- evaluating interconnection requirements/constraints,
- developing an implementation plan including potential funding sources,
- identifying educational curriculum opportunities, and
- evaluating how to connect the facility with the adjacent UCSC Coastal Sciences Campus to create one large microgrid that could support both of these facilities.
This project is currently active and scheduled to be completed by the end of 2017. The project is funded by the UC Regents.
