Montgomery County Leading the Way with Nation's Largest Transit Microgrid
Key Ideas
- Construction of the nation's largest transit microgrid is in progress in Montgomery County, Maryland, supporting the transition to a 100% zero-emission bus fleet.
- The microgrid project, developed by AlphaStruxure, will feature solar generation, battery energy storage, and a hydrogen electrolyzer for green hydrogen production.
- The microgrid will power 335 zero-emissions transit buses, buildings, and facilities, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 4,000 metric tons annually.
- Funding from sources like the Maryland Energy Administration and potential U.S. Energy Dept. support will contribute to the success of this innovative project.
Construction is underway for the nation's largest transit microgrid in Montgomery County, Maryland, to support the area's shift towards a 100% zero-emission bus fleet. Developed in partnership with AlphaStruxure, the project at the county's existing equipment maintenance and transit operation center will provide solar generation, battery storage, and a hydrogen electrolyzer for on-site green hydrogen production. This initiative will allow the county's Department of Transportation to introduce battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to its fleet, particularly benefiting low-income and minority communities. Scheduled for operation in 2025, the microgrid, in conjunction with the Brookville Smart Energy Bus Depot, will power a total of 335 zero-emissions transit buses and ensure uninterrupted service during grid outages. The project, backed by a Resilient Maryland grant and potential federal funding, aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 4,000 metric tons annually while enhancing sustainability and energy efficiency within the region.