The military has to plan for when they’re attacked by enemies. A
main goal for an attacking enemy would be to disrupt the internal power source
of a base. This could take away electricity and other vital resources to a
base. A microgrid that could provide internal power to a base without depending
on an external source would be the answer. Such a microgrid would enable a base
to function fully during an enemy action.
main goal for an attacking enemy would be to disrupt the internal power source
of a base. This could take away electricity and other vital resources to a
base. A microgrid that could provide internal power to a base without depending
on an external source would be the answer. Such a microgrid would enable a base
to function fully during an enemy action.
Network Security
During an enemy attack, network security would be
a priority. The enemy attack could also come in the form of a cyber attack. An
independent microgrid could provide the necessary internal power to make it
possible for a base to better handle online cyber attacks. The base would be in
a better position to deal with any online tactics utilized by cyber attackers.
Energy Sources
This microgrid would work best with a combination
of alternative and conventional energy sources. It would need to be designed so
it could effectively respond to the internal power requirements of a base. An
ability to secure and operate this network in conjunction with a public power
grid would be essential. It must be able to withstand any cyber threat that
could cause problems with a bigger external network.
Microgrid Reality
The Smart Power Infrastructure Demonstration for
Energy Reliability and Security (SPIDERS) is a project being designed by the
Department of Defense (DOD). The development of SPIDERS is currently being
worked on at a number of military bases around the United States. Every place
from Fort Collins, Colorado to Camp Smith, Hawaii and more are being utilized.
The success of SPIDERS at domestic military bases will have positive
implications for what can be done at installations in a foreign country.
Key Elements
Network security for the purposes of
communications and other control systems inside SPIDERS environment is key. The
SPIDERS microgrid has been designed to focus on cyber security and network
functions. The main goal of SPIDERS is security. It will be able to certify and
implement various technological security standards.
Energy Assets
The SPIDERS microgrid is made to utilize existing
energy assets. This could include different types of solar power, wind
generators as well as additional renewable technologies. This will provide more
dependable power than if only a backup diesel generator is utilized. Generators
running on renewable energy are continuously utilized for power from alternate
sources. This will occur during optimum conditions such as days with sufficient
sun or wind. SPIDERS permits renewable power to remain online while keeping
important safety measures in place. This will prevent a crash of the main grid.
Power Grids
Military bases that operate on big traditional power
grids have been designed to operate that way because of their size. The SPIDERS
microgrid will provide stability. It can provide a control system that is able
to handle power that is regularly utilized from a number of sources. The level
of readiness and access to specific SPIDER components is fairly high. The use
of it is almost ready to be expanded to other bases around the world. The
issues associated with integrating this microgrid into a smart grid have been
anticipated and are being addressed.
Non traditional Systems
SPIDERS is being used to control non traditional
systems like an electrical load. It will be able to safely handle the power
supply and load on the microgrid. It can provide generator and technological
efficiency. It will only need to depend on solar panels or windy days to
provide a portion of its power.
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