Landmark moment for a more sustainable future as the nation’s first energy micro grid powers up.

The Centre for Alternative Technology, CAT, in Wales, has become host to the UK’s first up-and-running micro grid’. Although other types of localised energy systems exist in the UK, this is the first with the ability to function independently or connect to the National Grid.

When CAT’s wind, hydro and solar sources generate more energy than needed, an intelligent control system’ sends the excess power to the National Grid. Alternatively, if there is a shortage during CAT’s peak times, it will draw the extra needed from the National Grid instead.

The infrastructure also includes storage units. These hold reserve power, which will be used in the very unlikely event of there being no wind, no water, no sun and the National Grid also failing. The control system would prioritise power to the centre’s emergency lights, servers and telephone lines.

This groundbreaking technology allows communities to use power generated on-site, with the added security of backup from standard supply. Furthermore, this type of system enables them to keep an eye on their energy use and also reduce their carbon footprint.

The developed world’s electricity is generated by a technologically-obsolete, centralised system, which wastes around 65 per cent of its energy before it reaches consumers. Massive losses occur along transmission lines and through waste-heat released in power stations.

In addition, only a snippet of the earth’s oil, gas, coal and uranium reserves lie within the European Union, meaning that there is a limited security of supply. Half of Europe’s power plants are more than 20 years old and must be replaced over the next decade or so.

Jase Kuriakose, the engineer working on the project, said: ‘It provides us with enormous opportunity to move towards a more sustainable decentralised system, which protects the climate and provides future generations with secure energy.’

Contact: Centre for Alternative Technology,
Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9AZ
Tel: +44 (0)1654 705950
Website: www​.cat​.org​.uk

Erecting one of CAT’s wind turbines,
which feeds power into the new micro-grid system
Photo: © CAT