Sustainable Energy at Coastal Facilities

Abstract

This research effort examined the paths to further adoption of sustainable energy at coastal facilities. It examined current technical, financial, legal, and policy challenges that have hindered past efforts to incorporate more renewable energy and that are priorities to be considered for future renewable energy projects. The research team gathered data and information through an examination of literature and interviews with subject matter experts familiar with coastal facilities and with experts in the renewable energy sector. The team conducted two case studies of US Coast Guard Station Monterey (CA) and Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (TX) to provide additional context for the adoption of sustainable renewable energy at coastal facilities. Additionally, research was conducted on mechanisms for microgrid financing to demonstrate how a facility may finance microgrid installation and further adoption of renewable energy and microgrids. Researchers found that there are some common core challenges for installing and using microgrids. These challenges include zoning issues, environmental considerations, infrastructure barriers, financing issues, conflicting safety standards, technical obstacles, and administrative hurdles. Researchers found that some challenges can be lessened, avoided, or accounted for with advance preparation and awareness ahead of time. Further analysis of region-specific challenges would provide more context for consideration of sustainable energy and implementation of microgrids. Further study is also required to understand the details of an appropriate financial acquisition agreement with a quantification of the benefits and costs of microgrids over time. Finally, the processes for contracting out microgrid design and construction and identifying suitable contractors is recommended.