Microgrids are essential for maintaining power during major storms like Sandy and Maria, yet utilities in the U.S. have been slow to deploy them at scale. Despite providing value to both utilities and customers, many remain stuck in the pilot phase. Microgrids offer strategic advantages beyond backup power, helping utilities address reliability and resilience challenges in a cost-effective manner. However, utilities face structural, regulatory, and operational barriers that hinder large-scale adoption. To fully realize the potential of microgrids, utilities must assess economic viability, prioritize high-value sites, and engage with regulators early in the planning process. This proactive approach can help utilities deploy microgrids at scale, strengthening grid resilience and modernizing operations in the face of increasing climate pressures and electrification.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: How Microgrids Can Strengthen Utility Resilience