As reported by SBT's sibling brand EnergyTech, Maryland's Frostburg State University has been awarded $750,000 in state funds to develop an on-campus microgrid incorporating solar and thermal power as well as e-Mobility infrastructure.
The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) awarded FSU the grant from its Resilient Maryland Capital Development Pilot Program funds. The grant award will help build a clean energy power system to protect critical campus operations in the event of power outages or other energy disruptions.
According to the report, Frostburg State University officials have ben mulling the possibilities and challenges of a microgrid for the past two years.
The Frostburg campus microgrid plan will incorporate several energy resources. Solar arrays will be installed across the campus, including rooftop, ground-mounted systems, and a canopy over a parking lot that will include electric vehicle charging stations.
Meanwhile, a gas fuel cell system will co-generate combined heat and electric power. That system will heat water for campus use and also chilled water through an absorption chiller. An advanced microgrid control system will help to integrate all of the resources.
“We are excited for Maryland institutions like Frostburg that see the benefits of expanding sustained electrical power through this program,” said Dr. Mary Tung, Director of MEA. “In times of much needed emergency operation, it’s vital to ensure our communities protect our most at risk with the necessary energy resources.”
