This microgrid is an integrated product design, built, and installed by Solential. It has made Fort Wayne one of the few cities in the U.S. independent enough to generate its own power for its essential water and sewer utilities.
The project began in September 2013 with the installation of a floating solar array over the city’s Water Pollution Control storage ponds. The array is composed of 12,000 panels strong powering the Three Rivers Filtration Plant, Water Pollution Control Plant, and Wet-Weather Pump Station. Thus, this would cover a considerable portion of each facility’s energy.
In addition to solar power, the microgrid utilizes a mix of food waste biogas and natural gas engines, making it easily operable even when grid-tied or off-grid. Moreover, a high-capacity battery system ensures reliability during cloudy days or days with low sun exposure. With this, it is anticipated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 4,600 tons per annum. This supports Fort Wayne’s commitment to sustainability.
With $2.8 million in operational costs accounted for in 2023, the microgrid is forecasted to break even within 20 years and save the city $8 to $10 million over its lifespan. Praised by Mayor Sharon Tucker, the microgrid project represents Fort Wayne’s resolution to forward-looking energy solutions as a benchmark for cities throughout the United States.