Lighting the Way: Resilient Ripley Microgrid

The Resilient Ripley clean energy microgrid system is providing advanced technology exposure to a rural, underserved area, increasing equitable access to clean energy technology. Designed by National Institute for Hometown Security (NIHS) and Resilient Energy & Infrastructure (REI), this project enables resiliency measures that will benefit the City of Ripley far into the future.

Project Summary

The National Institute for Hometown Security (NIHS), Resilient Energy & Infrastructure (REI) and the City of Ripley, TN, are implementing a highly mobile, solar microgrid system designed for emergency power and resilience situations for local communities. By deploying in a rural, underserved area with high levels of pollution, this pilot project provides equitable access to innovative, clean energy solutions and resources to historically underserved communities.

Existing solutions for reliable backup power, like diesel generators, lack modularity, have high carbon footprints and depend on continual refueling and maintenance. The Resilient Ripley Microgrid only requires two users to quickly deploy and reposition this backup power solution for essential community services when needed, ultimately serving as a cost-effective and energy-efficient power solution. The mobility of the microgrid enables it to be placed in a key infrastructure point, ensuring the system operates more efficiently and better serves the community in times of need.

Project Details

Location
Ripley, Tennessee

Proposed Budget

• Total Project: $887,000
• TVA Connected Communities: $621,000
• Pilot Team Match: $266,000

Focus Area

• Enhanced Community Resiliency

Project Lead

• National Institute for Hometown Security

Additional Partners

• City of Ripley
• Resilient Energy & Infrastructure, LLC
• Ripley Power & Light
• Tennessee Valley Authority