Microgrids: Advancing The Resilience Of Canada'S Future Energy System

Abstract

The purpose of this research project was to determine the potential market for microgrids in Canada as well as the barriers and challenges associated with the development of remote microgrids. As Canada and the rest of the world shift away from fossil fuels and toward renewable sources of energy, remote Indigenous communities are often left out of the development process. Microgrids offer an opportunity for remote Indigenous communities to move from diesel dependence to renewable energy that is reliable and affordable. The research also examined the policies and incentives driving the growth of microgrids. These objectives were achieved through: (a) compilation of all Canadian microgrids into excel. b) a review of prior academic and non-academic literature on policies supporting renewable energy growth in remote communities. The key findings show that residential microgrids, remote ones, have the highest potential market segment in Canada.