ABB microgrid tech to integrate wind in Alaska
Deering
and Buckland are two small villages in northwestern Alaska, with populations of
200 and 400 mostly indigenous Inupiaq people. For these residents, who rely
heavily on fishing and hunting for their subsistence, life above the Arctic
Circle is tough. Winter lasts for nine months with temperatures dipping to
minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The
challenge of providing stable, reliable and affordable power has motivated many
rural Arctic communities to incorporate increasing amounts of renewable
resources to offset the high cost and environmental impact of diesel fuel. But
while the flat coastal terrain is well-suited for wind generation, the wind
turbines installed there, have been underutilized due to the intermittent and
unstable nature of wind power.
ABB
will partner with the communities of Deering and Buckland to install advanced
modular "plug-and-play" microgrids that will leverage proven ABB Ability™
Microgrid Plus automation system and PowerStore™ storage technology, to
maximize the adoption of wind power. Incorporating more renewables will also
help the communities to lower costs and support the objectives set out by NANA
Regional Corporation, Inc. (NANA), the local utility to reduce reliance on
imported diesel by up to 75 percent, by 2030.
"The
deployment of these innovative microgrid solutions will enhance the integration
of renewable energy and enable a stronger, smarter and greener grid in these
remote parts of Alaska," said Massimo Danieli, Head of ABB's Grid Automation
business, a part of the company's Power Grids division.
ABB's
advanced Microgrid Plus control solution will manage the sophisticated
automation of the hybrid systems while ensuring secure power supplies with an
optimal renewable energy contribution. With the deployment of ABB's PowerStore
Battery technology, these remote Alaska communities will be able to achieve up
to 100 percent renewable penetration and pursue a sustainable future.
"Our
investment in this advanced microgrid technology from ABB will enable us to
maximize the contribution of clean renewable energy and reduce the use of
costly diesel fuel for powering our villages and projects," said Wayne
Qaniqsiruaq Westlake, President and CEO of NANA. "It will also enhance the
quality of life for the residents and support a sustainable energy future."