Tribal Microgrids

Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians | California | 2018 - ongoing

• Partnered with Prosper Sustainably working on behalf of the Tribe to conduct a microgrid feasibility study to provide input to a Department of Energy (DOE) funding opportunity announcement

• Through Prosper Sustainably and Sage’s efforts, the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians (Tribe) was awarded a DOE grant of $2M to design and build microgrid system consisting of 3.1 MWp solar PV constructed over parking lots, 2.45 MW of battery storage, 3 MW of diesel generators and all of the upgraded infrastructure required to construct three independent microgrid projects

• The first project will integrate the Tribe’s Casino/hotel resort (which also may be used as a critical community facility in emergencies), and the Tribe’s Travel Center, which is a critical source of fuel and supplies for the community. The project is designed to provide resilient energy to the Harrah’s Rincon Southern California (HRSC) complex for community preparedness and business/operational continuity. 

• The second project will power the Tribe’s Fire Station and Emergency Operations Center, including approximately 100 kWp of new solar PV, 150kWh of Li-Ion BESS, and advanced controls integrated with the existing diesel backup generator. 

• A third project was added to include the Tribe’s Government Center, including approximately 300 kWp of new solar PV, 500 kWh of Li-Ion BESS, and advanced controls integrated with the existing diesel backup generator.

• Performed a feasibility, cost-benefit, and electric rate analyses for each of the three sites and for the combined microgrid system installations. Scope includes assistance throughout the conceptual design, bidding and procurement, construction and commissioning process. It is estimated that the Tribe will save $9.2 million in electricity costs over the next 25 years and gain the value of a resilient and reliable electric system.