The future of renewable energy may lie in microgrids—but what does it actually take to implement one? From navigating utility regulations to weathering the effects of COVID-19, the EcoBlock research team reflects on the complexities of executing the pilot microgrid project.
With the decreased value of solar coming under the program, implementing storage to offset lost value will be a natural next step.
“If all of the homes in Oakland were to switch to heat pump space heaters, it would eliminate half of the greenhouse gas emissions from the residential sector,” says the sustainability director for the City of Oakland.
According to EcoBlock Senior Advisor Dr. Alexandra “Sascha” von Meier, microgrids are “probably the best solution” to maintain reliable power in areas that feel the brunt of climate impacts.
Co-developed by EcoBlock’s Larry Strain, FAIA, the CARE Tool estimates the operational and embodied carbon emissions associated with reusing and upgrading an existing building or replacing it with new construction.
EcoBlock Senior Advisor Dr. Alexandra “Sascha” von Meier weighs in on the state of California’s electric grid in light of recent winter storms that have prompted major evacuations and left thousands without power.
The grant funding will support projects that advance environmental justice in underserved and overburdened communities across the U.S.
California officials announced the state has joined the National Building Performance Standards Coalition, a White House-led initiative to accelerate building performance standards across the country.
The world’s first commercial solar electric vehicles (EVs) are slated to hit the U.S. and European markets as early as the end of this year.
The EcoBlock co-PI and UC Berkeley professor discussed the disproportionate impacts of climate change as noted in a recent IPCC report.