energy & technology

of newly introduced software. He said it is exciting for the older members to be in a mentorship position with the younger members, and they all bring valuable knowledge into the group.

Microgrids are everywhere, according to Thompson. When the power goes out and a home or business switches to generator power — that’s a microgrid. A ship, unplugged from shore power, is a microgrid. The CSM Group advocates for more microgrids throughout the region, state, and the country, explaining that microgrids powered by solar energy have the ability to back up and eventually replace other types of power systems, reducing the need for fossil fuels, saving people money, and saving lives.

For example, Thompson said natural events such as high winds and droughts can cause energized power lines to cause forest fires. A solar-powered microgrid can help to keep power in place without endangering people at the edges of these forests, and he said Duke Energy has proved it can be done.

“There is a major power line running through Pisgah National Forest to the community of Hot Springs that sometimes has to be shut off,” Thompson said. “A microgrid in place in Hot Springs uses solar plus a battery backup system plus a load management system. When that major power line has to be shut off, the microgrid powers the town.”

Thompson said the group is working with the City of Asheville and Buncombe County to help them better understand the value of using critical services microgrids to power government facilities, police, and fire stations. Major businesses that continued on next page