HSGS-Ameresco to install microgrid at White Sands Missile Range

HSGS-Ameresco LLC has been awarded a contract to install a microgrid system at the U.S. Department of Defense White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), which at 3200 sq. miles is the department’s largest open-air military test facility in New Mexico. The microgrid system will provide power for several of the base’s potable water wells, which support critical missions at the Army Research Lab, Material Test Directorate, fire department and a Fort Bliss power projection platform.

The system includes a new 700 kW solar photovoltaic array, a 500 kW natural gas generator and a 500 kW battery energy storage system, and is designed to be able to provide 14 days of power to energize the water wells in the event of an outage. The project scope also includes updated electrical panels, transformers and controls, a fiber optic communication line, fire alarm system, meters, cybersecurity measures, anti-terrorism measures and security fencing, among others.

HSGS-Ameresco, a joint venture certified as a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) by the Small Business Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), will provide all supervision, labor, materials, equipment, supplies and transportation necessary to perform the microgrid project.

“We are excited to implement this project to enhance the reliability of WSMR’s energy system,” said Dave McNeil, president and CEO of HSGS-Ameresco. “This diverse solution set will strengthen the base’s energy and water resilience, so that it is no longer dependent on a single source of power.”

“This micro-grid system is designed to enable the base to provide continuous power during a loss of utility event for wells on site that provide critical water supply to the installation,” added Nicole Bulgarino, executive vice president, Ameresco.

Construction is set to begin in December 2022 and is expected to be completed by late 2023.