1 AIA LU|HSW Available

Microgrids are an emerging trend gaining popularity for their dual purpose of building resiliency and sustainability benefits. This session explores the limitations and complexities of these systems, as well as the benefits they can bring to projects. Technical concepts will be grounded with case studies that show the benefits and design considerations of including these systems in building designs.

Microgrids with PV and batteries provide a way to expand the sustainability and resiliency of a building. They do this by providing grid-support services during normal operation that help advance grid-decarbonization. In off-grid times, they can provide extended operation of critical loads that can potentially exceed what is possible with fossil fuel generators providing long and more sustained support of critical services.

Learning Objective 1:
Understand the technical definition of a microgrid, and how they contribute to ensuring community safety, well-being and self-sufficiency at a lower energy cost

Learning Objective 2:
Understand how microgrids can be included as a resiliency solution on buildings

Learning Objective 3:
Understand how microgrid systems can be used to support sustainability functions

Learning Objective 4:
Review design considerations for microgrids and their impacts on space and system planning

Karina Hershberg

Passionate about sustainable development, Karina has more than a decade of experience in electrical engineering design. With this background, she brings a unique perspective to her dual roles in analysis and engineering at PAE. Through data-driven analytics and innovative electrical design, Karina helps projects implement regenerative and resilient solutions. She leads the development of microgrid design, emissions analysis, and campus-scale solutions for the firm. Karina was a key contributor on the Rocky Mountain Institute Innovation Center, The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, CalSTRS Headquarters Expansion, Beaverton Public Safety Center, and the PAE Living Building projects.