The US Army has awarded HSGS-Ameresco with a contract to install a microgrid system at the U.S. Department of Defense White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) in New Mexico. The system will provide power for several of the base’s potable water wells, which are vital in supporting the work performed at the Army Research Lab, Material Test Directorate, fire department, and a Fort Bliss power projection platform.
“We are excited to implement this project to enhance the reliability of WSMR’s energy system,” said Dave McNeil, president and CEO of HSGS-Ameresco. “This diverse solution set will strengthen the base’s energy and water resilience, so that it is no longer dependent on a single source of power.”
The new microgrid system will include a 700 kW solar photovoltaic array, a 500 kW natural gas generator, and a 500 kW battery energy storage system. It is designed to be able to provide 14 days of power in the event of an outage. The project also includes updated electrical panels, transformers and controls, a fiber optic communication line, fire alarm system, meters, cybersecurity measures, anti-terrorism measures, and security fencing. HSGS-Ameresco will provide all the necessary supervision, labor, materials, equipment, supplies, and transportation.
“We’re thrilled to have been selected as a partner on this project for a site that is so important to our national security. This micro-grid system is designed to enable the base to provide continuous power during a loss of utility event for wells on site that provide critical water supply to the installation,” added Nicole Bulgarino, executive vice president, Ameresco.
Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2022 and is expected to be completed by late 2023.