Siemens powers on microgrid at North Carolina facility

Key Takeaways

• Siemens has launched a 1.25-megawatt microgrid at its North Carolina facility
• The microgrid features a solar photovoltaic carport array and a 3.9-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system
• The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve site resilience
• Siemens plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030

Introduction to Microgrids

Microgrids are self-sustaining energy systems that can operate independently of the main grid, providing a reliable source of power for industrial and commercial facilities. Siemens has recently unveiled an on-site microgrid at its Wendell, North Carolina facility, which is integrated into its U.S. electrification and automation headquarters.

Microgrid Specifications

The Wendell microgrid has a capacity of 1.25 megawatts and features a solar photovoltaic carport array and a 3.9-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system. The system is designed to improve site resilience by helping protect the factory from grid outages that could affect production of medium-voltage power equipment.

Comparison of Microgrid Components

Energy Efficiency and Carbon Reduction

The microgrid and other campus energy-saving measures have helped the Wendell site reach carbon-neutral operations and reduce annual grid energy consumption by 2.5 MWh. This project is part of Siemens' goal to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Applications and Benefits

The microgrid can participate in net energy metering by sending excess electricity back to the grid, and it is also connected to Siemens VersiCharge electric vehicle chargers on-site. The system provides real-time data and analytics, allowing for optimized energy management and improved site resilience.

Conclusion and Future Plans

Siemens is working with customers and partners on related energy projects in the U.S., including Wake Technical Community College, to develop a planned campus microgrid. The company plans to continue expanding its workforce through 2028 and beyond, with the addition of hundreds of jobs in recent years.

Bottom Line

The launch of the Siemens microgrid at its North Carolina facility marks a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving site resilience. With its advanced energy management systems and renewable energy sources, the microgrid is a model for industrial and commercial facilities looking to reduce their environmental footprint and improve their energy efficiency.