Advanced Energy (AE) Systems deploy a set of innovative Distributed Energy Resources. AE Systems serve clusters of buildings through district thermal networks, microgrids, and/or grid interactive building technologies. The implementation of these technologies creates cost-effective, resilient, low-carbon energy systems.
Proponents of projects larger than 1.5 million square feet must carry out an Advanced Energy Systems Feasibility Assessment and Report. The Feasibility Assessment serves as a technical and economic evaluation of the applicability, scope, and nature of an Advanced Energy System for a project subject to Article 80 review. An early feasibility assessment allows a proponent to work with the Smart Utilities team during initial design phases on the most viable AE solution. The feasibility study highlights either a large microgrid ready building, or a district energy solution for a cluster of buildings that meets both Article 37 Requirements and the City of Boston’s Building Emission Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO) Requirements, furthering the city’s decarbonization goals.
Project teams provide narratives, data, diagrams, drawings, and utility site plans that explain the pros and cons of each strategy, as well as any intent to pursue an Advanced Energy System for the project. Large buildings will be assessed as either microgrid or nanogrid ready.
The Distributed Energy Resources technologies that fall under the umbrella of Advanced Energy Systems include but not limited to the following:
The implementation of Advanced Energy Systems provides the following benefits:
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Climate, energy, and electrical grid resilience
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Carbon emission reduction
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Locally consumed and produced renewable energy
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Energy efficiency and utility bill savings
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Enhanced and optimized grid management and operation
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Innovative technology integration
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