The problem is that no one at Crispus Attucks knows how to go about creating a microgrid.

FORBES: D.C. Park Reveals the Gap Between Microgrid Promise and Reality

Over a year, the solar-powered microgrid will reduce the running time of the diesel generators from 100% to 40%.

FORBES: Solar-Powered Microgrid Slashes Alcatraz Island's Dependence On Fossil Fuels

Without DG, a microgrid could not exist, so these DG assets are the foundation of any such localized smart grid network.

FORBES: Moving Microgrids Into the Mainstream

In order for a microgrid to continue operating in island mode, it has to include some form of on-site power generation.

FORBES: Moving Microgrids Into the Mainstream

It can exist independent of the power grid or interact with it so users can draw power from the macrogrid or the microgrid.

FORBES: D.C. Park Reveals the Gap Between Microgrid Promise and Reality

That was when the Crispus Attucks Development Corporation, the nonprofit that runs the park, got the idea that they could build a microgrid.

FORBES: D.C. Park Reveals the Gap Between Microgrid Promise and Reality

The microgrid comprises eight 100-kW grid-tied inverters, the rooftop PV array, the lead-acid battery pack, backup diesel generators, and a Web-based monitoring and control system.

FORBES: Solar-Powered Microgrid Slashes Alcatraz Island's Dependence On Fossil Fuels

And they have no one to turn to for advice because, as it turns out, building even a simple microgrid is a highly complicated endeavor.

FORBES: D.C. Park Reveals the Gap Between Microgrid Promise and Reality

All the park managers want to do is create a microgrid with a few solar panels and a battery pack to meet a few humble power needs with no connection to the larger grid.

FORBES: D.C. Park Reveals the Gap Between Microgrid Promise and Reality