Energy Efficiency

Local governments have taken different approaches to energy efficiency, from implementing energy efficiency plans for government operations to assisting with financing residential and commercial energy upgrades.  Efficiency can reduce our dependence on foreign oil and eliminate the need for new non-renewable power generation sources.

A regional approach to energy efficiency could include doing an assessment of the current energy structure and identifying the most effective strategies to reduce energy consumption.  Strategies could include revising building code standards to be more energy efficient, local governments creating incentives, creating loan programs through the counties, or focusing on shifting power generation to distributed generation.

Short term activities include:

Smart Grid
A smart electric grid is a two-way communication between the consumer and the utility about grid capacity and individual energy usage. This communication is usually conducted over broadband lines or wirelessly.  The smart grid is able to detect when a portion of the grid is in danger of going down and is able to reroute power and therefore maximize power reliability.  It can also restore power faster if outages do occur. Smart meters are one tool used to support the smart grid system and are able to give utilities and consumers detailed information about energy use trends.

A regional approach to a smart grid system would need to be instituted through the energy utilities.  While there is a significant upfront cost for the infrastructure, the long-term pay off greatly exceeds the cost.  We will be conducting a survey of regional electric providers (municipal-owned, co-op, private) regarding their preparation for developing a smart grid.

Electric Auto Charging

Electric auto charging stations will probably become a necessity as auto technology rapidly progresses, especially since the newest electric vehicles can only go so far on a charge.  Stations provide electricity hookups for public use, and consumers pay for the amount of electricity, similar to a parking meter.

Because many people would be charging their vehicles during peak energy usage periods while they are at work, it is important to consider where the energy is coming from and the strain on the grid system.  A smart grid system would allow for communication between the vehicle and grid, backed up by intelligent software that makes decisions based on predicted conditions (weather, peak energy use periods).  Choosing to power the charging stations with renewable sources like mini wind turbines or solar will also reduce stress on the grid.  The distributed generation source would charge vehicles and feed excess energy into the grid once the vehicle is fully charged. 

Currently, there are several different electric vehicle charger types: inductive paddles and others with plug connectors. Until these standards are resolved, it is difficult to know which type to install. 

The region will need to prepare to modify zoning and building codes to allow for electric charging stations.

Distributed Generation

Distributed generation is small-scale power generation that can be used on site or fed back to the grid when excess is generated. Examples include solar panels, small wind turbines, and combined heat and power. Distributed generation of electricity increases energy security, reliability, and reduces cost.

Developing a regional approach to energy security would include identifying areas for distributed generation based on emissions, energy usage, and grid utilization.  If utilities are able to compensate consumers for excess power generated by energy generation technology like wind turbines and solar panels, the region can also promote incentives to install these technologies. We will be researching and providing guidance on zoning & building codes regarding distributed generation.We will also need to identify barriers to installing these technologies like building codes and Home Owner Association policies.

As the Green Task Force develops, more details about what our region will be doing in these area will be posted here.