microgrid

noun

mi·​cro·​grid ˈmī-krō-ˌgrid 

variants or less commonly micro-grid

plural microgrids also micro-grids

: a small grid

The Logitech io Pen … only works when writing on special paper that's embedded with an invisible microgrid of tiny dots arranged like graph paper.

—Frank Bajak

especially : a local electrical grid (see grid sense 2a(3)) that can be connected to a larger network but that is also capable of operating independently

When the community fell dark after the storm, there remained all but one source of power: a solar microgrid operated by Casa Pueblo, an environmental nonprofit and community center.

—Greta Moran

Microgrids, with their own electricity-generating capacity, are a better bet. Most of these local grids are operated by private organisations such as military bases, industrial plants and universities, which need more dependable power …

—The Economist

The facility will be powered by a micro-grid with on-site solar panels, battery storage, auxiliary power and small vertical wind turbines …

—Delta County (Colorado) Independent

After the disaster knocked out power to much of eastern Japan, smart microgrid projects from industrial to residential changed their approach.

—Tam Harbert

Examples of microgrid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Foley now runs Cuyahoga Green Energy, the first electric utility in the United States focused on microgrids. —Sam Allard, Axios, 22 Oct. 2024

For data centers in remote locations or areas with limited grid capacity, microgrids provide a flexible and sustainable solution to address power challenges and reduce grid dependence. —Emil Sayegh, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

At the same time, companies specializing in renewable infrastructure—like solar microgrids—should look at partnerships that can tackle the dual need for scaling renewables while ensuring reliability. —Ariel Cohen, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024

Zoom in: Columbus' efforts include improving stormwater infrastructure, installing solar microgrids as a backup power supply and pursuing cleaner energy. —Alissa Widman Neese, Axios, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

micro- + grid

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above