Gallaudet microgrid recognized at industry conference 

Gallaudet University’s microgrid initiative received one of four Microgrid Knowledge Greater Good Awards at Microgrid 2023: LIghts On!, an industry conference held May 16-17 in Anaheim, California. This year’s event drew more than 600 microgrid leaders, developers, innovators, and users. 

Gallaudet was awarded the Greater Good prize for grid-connected microgrid.  

Microgrids provide reliable power to communities and critical infrastructure in the face of severe weather and natural disasters, light to study by and fresh water to drink for children, and energy security to people with disabilities. Read about Gallaudet’s microgrid. 

Our microgrid not only offsets the university’s electricity demand, but it has enough solar capacity to serve some 1,500 households or businesses in the surrounding community. 

The independent panel of judges found this project intriguing because it serves both the university and its neighbors. “It’s great how the school thought beyond its own needs and sought to serve the broader community as well,” judge Housely Carr said. 

Another judge, Patrice Calise,  agreed, adding, “This is the way forward for all universities.” 

David Good, Gallaudet’s director of Energy, Utilities, and Sustainability, said, “We are greatly honored to accept this award which recognizes the significant resiliency and environmental benefits that will come from Gallaudet University’s Microgrid project. This project is a testament to Gallaudet University’s commitment to sustainability and to improving the well-being of our campus and surrounding communities.”