§17392 Micro-grid and Integrated Micro-grid Systems Program

Summary

Creates a Department of Energy program to help build small, local power grids. The program must support integrated micro-grids for isolated communities and micro-grids that make critical places more resilient. It must study feasibility, write implementation plans (one focused on isolated communities, especially those facing extreme weather and high energy costs, and one for critical infrastructure), run cost-shared demonstration projects, and include physical and cybersecurity plans. Defines a few terms in one line each: integrated micro-grid system — uses both conventional and renewable power and may include large-scale storage; isolated community — a place powered by its own standalone electric system; micro-grid system — a local grid that can operate independently; rural electric cooperative — a coop selling power in rural areas; strategy — the plan the Secretary will develop. The program must consider things like improving efficiency, local workforce training, use of local research groups, needed infrastructure, traditional local knowledge, effects on defense/economy/environment, and interagency coordination. The Department must work with states, tribes, local governments, colleges, regional regulators, and private companies. Reports to Congress are due within 180 days after December 27, 2020 and yearly through 2029. A report on benefits and barriers is due within 270 days after December 27, 2020, and the Secretary must give annual grants of up to $500,000 to at least 20 eligible local entities, up to $15,000,000 each year, to overcome those barriers.