Microgrids For Critical Services

The Microgrids Program is a joint program between the Office of Energy Resources and the Renewable Energy Fund. This program offers municipalities, school districts and fire districts the opportunity to enhance their resilience during power outages by increasing microgrid development in critical facilities across the state. 

The program is designed in two phases, phase 1: feasibility studies, phase 2: microgrid construction. Phase 1 will focus on creating feasibility studies, giving communities the opportunity to explore the potential for a microgrid project, with no obligation to proceed to Phase 2, the construction of feasible microgrids. Phase 1 will be launching soon. Phase 2 is currently under development and will be launching in Fall 2025. 

If you are interested in learning more or applying for a feasibility study please visit the REF website: Renewable Energy Fund | REF Grants, Programs & Materials (commerceri.com) 

Resilient Microgrids for Critical Services Report

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources commissioned a report, Resilient Microgrids for Critical Services. In the wake of multi-day power outages due to severe weather events in recent years, OER sought consultant support for design of a program intended to enhance the energy assurance of critical infrastructure through deployment of distributed energy resources and other means. This effort draws from lessons learned in other states with similar programs. This report describes technologies, procurement strategies, and polices that can contribute to microgrid development.